A tragic incident has unfolded in the quiet town of Oleh, Delta State, shaking the community deeply. Ngozi Ogbuefi, 23, was attacked by her possessive ex-boyfriend, Chinedu Okafor, after trying to break up. Okafor, 27, had reportedly been emotionally abusive, controlling, and violent throughout their months-long relationship. His rage escalated into love-turn-hate.
Despite multiple attempts to leave, Ngozi feared Okafor would not accept her decision. Violence was always imminent. On January 3, 2025, Ngozi made one last attempt to end the toxic relationship. Okafor exploded in fury, Medialord.ng gathered.
Witnesses reported hearing screams and cries for help, but by the time they arrived, it was too late. Okafor had fatally wounded Ngozi, using a sharp object before fleeing the scene in a violent fit. Unconfirmed report said she died later from the attack. However, the incident formed one of the escalating violence in Nigeria, where intimate partner homicides are rising.
Rise of love-turn-hate violent crimes
The rise of violent crime related to love affairs in Nigeria is becoming a growing concern.
According to the August 4, 2021 edition of Olisa Ogbakoba Legal (OAL), “Murder, culpable homicide, and attempts are becoming alarmingly prevalent.” The article said the aalarming situation has generated public interest in existing laws that protect and prevent arbitrary deprivation of the constitutionally guaranteed right to life.
Similarly, a psychologist, Dr. Linda Obi, laments that there is a significant increase in domestic homicides in recent years. Women, especially young women, are the primary victims of this violence, with intimate partner violence being common.
According to her, violence often begins in a love-turn-hate relationship with emotional abuse, manipulation, and control. These ultimately lead to escalating physical attacks when victims attempt to leave. “Many abusers have low self-esteem, and control their partners out of insecurity,” she said.
The impacts of domestic violence
The psychological impact of domestic violence is deep, often leading to long-term trauma for victims. Dr. Obi explains that abusers often manipulate their victims, isolating them from support and causing emotional distress.
Ngozi’s story reflects this pattern. She grew more distant and fearful, despite confiding in friends about her situation, according to neighbours.
“Emotional abuse can be just as damaging as physical violence, often leading to depression,” Obi adds.
Legal experts have pointed out that while Nigeria has laws against domestic violence, they are not always enforced. Hence, Kemi Adewale, a legal scholar, calls for stronger legal protections. “The justice system must protect victims better. Preventing domestic violence requires stronger legislation and swift law enforcement action to deter abusers,” says Adewale.
The lack of immediate intervention by law enforcement is a significant factor in the increase of domestic homicides. Police investigations into cases like Ngozi’s murder need to be handled with urgency and thoroughness, experts emphasize.
Stopping the cycle of violence
Ngozi’s case has sparked outrage and calls for justice across Delta State and beyond. Local advocacy groups have condemned the murder and demanded immediate action to curb domestic violence. “The system failed her,” said Eta Dickson, a local women’s rights activist. “This is not just her tragedy, but society’s.”
Dickson says her death calls for urgent preventive education and more effective enforcement of protective laws. “We can’t let more women suffer in silence,” she said. “We must protect young women from violent relationships.”
The Delta State Police are working diligently to apprehend Okafor, but the community demands greater accountability.
The growing number of violent crimes related to love affairs demands urgent attention from law enforcement. Domestic violence is a public health issue, with long-lasting psychological and physical effects on its victims.
Statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO) highlight the prevalence of intimate partner violence globally. In Nigeria, nearly 28% of women experience intimate partner violence, with domestic homicide rates steadily rising.
Experts stress the need for society to break the silence surrounding domestic abuse, creating safe spaces for victims. Raising awareness in schools, workplaces, and communities is essential in preventing these crimes before they escalate.
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