In a swift response to a whistleblower's alert, the Anambra State Government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, intervened to rescue Chidiebere Otenyi, a victim of domestic abuse in Ezinifite, Aguata Local Government Area of the state.
The rescue operation led to the arrest of Martha Umenweke, the perpetrator, who was subsequently handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution at the Children, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Magistrates’ Court in Awka.
According to Chidimma Ikeanyionwu, the media aide to the Anambra State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, the rescue mission was prompted by a whistleblower's report detailing the abuse inflicted on Chidiebere Otenyi.
During interrogation, Umenweke claimed that the maid had stolen her money, which she alleged was the reason for inflicting injuries on her. However, Commissioner Ify Obinabo expressed outrage over the incident, vowing to ensure that the perpetrator faces the full weight of the law.
Chidiebere Otenyi, a 19-year-old from Nkanu, Enugu State, recounted her ordeal, stating that her employer accused her of theft, leading to brutal physical assault.
This incident adds to the growing concern over cases of domestic abuse in Anambra State, following a similar incident earlier in February involving a lawyer accused of abusing her house help.
