A yet to be identified housewife from Isoko area of Delta State has been arrested by police in connection with the killing of her husband and another woman in the Ighwre Ovie community of Ughelli North Local Government Area. The violent incident, which occurred within a residential neighbourhood, has sent shockwaves through the community and renewed concerns about rising cases of domestic violence linked to marital disputes.

According to multiple community sources, the woman, a mother of two, is currently being held at the Ughelli Area Command of the Delta State Police. She is accused of attacking her husband with a machete, killing him on the spot, before allegedly going on to kill another woman believed to be his romantic partner. A third victim, a female neighbour who attempted to intervene, sustained serious injuries and is receiving medical treatment.

What Happened in Ighwre Ovie

Residents of Ighwre Ovie told Vanguard that the incident unfolded after a long period of tension in the household. The suspect had reportedly accused her husband of engaging in extramarital relationships, accusations that neighbours said were frequent and often led to arguments between the couple.

According to one community member who spoke on condition of anonymity, the situation escalated on the day of the incident when the husband returned home in an intoxicated state.

“The woman has been accusing her husband of having extramarital affairs with another unidentified woman that she killed the same day,” the resident told Vanguard. “On that fateful day, the husband came back home drunk and immediately he entered the house, the wife attacked him with a machete, striking his head several times.”

The injuries were said to be severe, and the man reportedly died instantly from the wounds.

Attack on Neighbour and Second Victim

Eyewitness accounts indicate that the violence did not stop with the husband’s death. A female neighbour who attempted to restrain the suspect and calm the situation was also attacked.

Community members said the neighbour suffered a deep cut to her jaw and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where she is currently receiving treatment. Her condition was not officially disclosed as of the time of reporting.

According to the same eyewitness, the suspect then left her residence and proceeded to the home of the woman believed to be her husband’s romantic partner, which is located within the same neighbourhood.

On arrival, the suspect allegedly attacked the woman with a hammer, striking her repeatedly on the head. The victim reportedly died from her injuries.

Another woman in the area narrowly escaped being attacked after hearing the commotion and raising an alarm. Residents said her screams drew the attention of other community members, who mobilised and alerted the authorities, leading to the suspect’s arrest.

Police Yet to Issue Official Statement

As of the time of filing this report, the Delta State Police Command had not released an official statement on the incident. The Police Public Relations Officer, Edafe Bright, had not responded to requests for comment regarding the arrests, the identities of the victims, or the charges the suspect may face.

Police sources, however, confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that the suspect remains in custody at the Ughelli Area Command pending further inquiries.

Background of Domestic Violence in Delta State

While violent domestic disputes are not new in Nigeria, cases that escalate into multiple fatalities remain relatively rare and deeply troubling. In recent years, civil society groups and law enforcement agencies have raised concerns about unresolved marital conflicts, substance abuse, and lack of access to conflict resolution mechanisms, especially in semi urban and rural communities.

According to data from rights advocacy groups, domestic violence cases often go unreported until they reach extreme levels. Analysts note that prolonged suspicion of infidelity, combined with alcohol use and lack of mediation, can heighten tensions and increase the risk of violent outcomes.

A sociologist at Delta State University, who spoke to reporters on general trends rather than this specific case, said domestic disputes linked to jealousy and mistrust often fester over time.

“When grievances are not addressed early, they can become explosive,” the academic said. “Community intervention, counselling, and early reporting are critical in preventing these kinds of tragedies.”

Why the Case Matters Now

The Ughelli incident has reignited conversations around mental health, marital counselling, and the role of community structures in de-escalating domestic conflicts. Residents say the couple’s disputes were known in the area, raising questions about whether earlier intervention could have prevented the loss of lives.

The case also underscores the dangers faced by bystanders who attempt to intervene in violent domestic situations without adequate support or protection. The injured neighbour’s experience has prompted renewed calls for public awareness on how to safely respond to domestic violence emergencies.

Meanwhile, legal experts say the case is likely to be closely followed, given the number of victims involved and the brutality of the alleged acts. If charged, the suspect could face multiple counts under Nigeria’s criminal laws, including homicide and grievous bodily harm.

Key developments to monitor include the formal statement from the Delta State Police Command, the filing of charges, and the outcome of medical treatment for the injured neighbour. Authorities are also expected to release further details once investigations are concluded, including confirmation of the victims’ identities.

Community leaders in Ughelli North have reportedly begun discussions on how to strengthen neighbourhood response systems and encourage residents to report early signs of domestic violence to authorities.

Suggested Visual Elements

To complement this report, editors may consider:

A location map showing Ighwre Ovie within Ughelli North Local Government Area.

A timeline graphic outlining the sequence of events as reported by witnesses.

An explainer box on how to report domestic violence cases in Delta State, including police and support hotlines.

The alleged killings in Ighwre Ovie represent a tragic intersection of domestic conflict, unchecked anger, and community shock. As police investigations continue, the case serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of unresolved marital disputes and the urgent need for accessible support systems to prevent violence before it turns fatal.