
…Case Transferred to State High Court
Chief Magistrate court 1 sitting in Enugu has declined jurisdiction to try one Mr. Sunday Echeji who allegedly severed his wife’s hand due to domestic violence
The charge brought against Echeji was attempted murder, filed under Section 275, Subsection A of the Criminal Code (Cap 30, Vol. 1, Revised Laws of Enugu State, 2004).
Due to the severity of the charge, the Chief Magistrate Court had to transfer the case to the State Department of Public Prosecution (DPP).
Mr. Echeji was however, remanded at the Enugu State Correctional Service Centre pending the commencement of his trial at the State High Court.
The incident, which happened in Ugwuogede village, Ibagwa-Agu, Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu state, has sparked widespread outrage across the state.
Meanwhile, the First Lady of Enugu State Mrs Nkechinyere Mbah has reportedly been monitoring the case closely, reiterating the administration’s commitment to ending violence against women.
In a public statement, the First Lady declared, “This kind of violence will not be tolerated in our state. Be rest assured we will ensure that justice is served. So, think twice before you commit such a barbaric or inhumane act or indeed any form of violence because, with this administration, you must face justice”. Nkechinyere said.
Beyond legal action, the Enugu State Government has continued in its efforts to protect women and girls, strengthen legal frameworks, and support survivors of domestic violence. Stakeholders, including civil society groups and law enforcement agencies, are working together to ensure that cases like this will be used to set a strong precedent against all forms of violence.