OWERRI, Nigeria — The Imo State Police Command has opened an investigation into the killing of a female student of the College of Nursing, Umulogho, in Obowo Local Government Area, after her body was found in her apartment.
The victim was identified as Wendy Achumba, a native of Ngwa in Abia State. School and community sources said she had completed her midwifery programme at the institution and was undergoing post-basic studies before the attack. Her lifeless body was discovered in her private off-campus apartment in Umuadara, Umulogho, triggering fear and anger among students and residents.
Police Public Relations Officer Henry Okoye confirmed the incident in a statement, saying the divisional police officer and operatives visited the scene shortly after receiving the report. He said officers carried out an on-the-spot assessment, recovered the body and deposited it at the morgue as part of ongoing investigative procedures.
Okoye said one suspect had been arrested for preliminary questioning to assist investigators, while a manhunt had been launched for other suspected members of the gang believed to be connected to the killing. He added that the command was working to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.
“The Command is aware of the tragic incident involving the death of a female student of the College of Nursing, Umulogho, whose body was discovered in her private off-campus apartment,” Okoye said.
He appealed to students, residents and members of the public to remain calm, assuring them that the situation was under control and that every effort was being made to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Local reports said the killing sparked tension in the community, with angry youths demanding swift action from security agencies. The motive for the attack has not been established, and police have not released further details on the identity of the suspect in custody.
The incident has heightened concern over student safety in and around tertiary institutions in the state, particularly those living in private accommodation outside school hostels. Residents urged security agencies to intensify patrols and ensure that the investigation is concluded quickly.
Authorities said updates would be provided as the investigation progresses. For now, the police command has urged the public to avoid spreading unverified claims that could undermine the investigation or create panic in the community.
