Imo Govt Arraigns Trader For Allegedly Burning Maid’s Genital

The Imo State Government has initiated attempted murder charges against a 38-year-old businesswoman, Juliet Igwe, who is accused of inflicting severe injuries on her maid.

Ms. Igwe allegedly burned the maid’s private areas, immersed her hands in hot water, and scalded her body with candle wax.

The state’s legal representative, Fidelis Igbo, announced this development before Chief Magistrate B.U. Adikaibe in Owerri, representing the state ministry of justice.

Chidiebube Okeoma, an activist journalist who rescued the victim in Osina, Ideato North Local Government Area, shared that the case was presented for the Director of Public Prosecutions’ advice following a failed December arraignment due to jurisdiction issues.

During the court session, Okeoma reported that the state’s legal counsel confirmed the attempted murder charges had been filed against the accused at the Uruala High Court in Owerri.

Consequently, the Chief Magistrate dismissed the case from her court, allowing the high court arraignment for attempted murder on February 26.

Previously, the Chief Magistrate had ordered the accused’s detention at the Owerri Correctional Centre, pending the DPP’s report.

She explained that her court could not try the case, as the crime carries a potential life imprisonment sentence upon conviction.

Okeoma, who brought the five-year-old victim to court, informed the press that his organization, Stand For Humanity Foundation, is collaborating with the state government to ensure the child’s full recovery and the pursuit of justice.

The journalist further mentioned that Chioma Uzodimma, the governor’s wife, visited the victim in the hospital and pledged comprehensive rehabilitation and justice.

The trial is set to commence on February 26 at the Uruala High Court in Owerri.

Okeoma noted that the child had lost three fingers due to the injuries and appealed for public support in the prosecution.