The Abia State chapter of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has strongly condemned a shocking incident of domestic violence in which a man allegedly set himself, his wife, and their children ablaze, resulting in the death of their one-year-old daughter and, reportedly, other members of the family.
The tragic event occurred in the early hours of Saturday between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m. in the Onicha Ngwa community of Obingwa Local Government Area.
The suspect, 40-year-old Mr. Udochi Amala, allegedly doused his family in petrol and set them on fire over suspicions of infidelity by his wife, Mrs. Amarachi Amala.
The couple’s home was engulfed in flames while they and their three children were inside.
According to eyewitnesses, Mr. Amala attempted to flee the scene after the fire spread, but was apprehended by residents of the area. He was also reportedly injured in the blaze.
Preliminary statements attributed to him suggest remorse and despair: “I have an issue with my wife, and I did not know that it would get to this extent. I am tired of this life,” he allegedly said, later admitting he had no concrete evidence of his wife’s alleged infidelity.
The Abia State Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer DSP Maureen Chinaka, confirmed the incident and stated that a full investigation is underway.
FIDA Abia, in a statement released on Tuesday and signed by Chairperson Njideka Aniawonwa and Secretary Eberechukwu Kanu Oji, expressed “shock, outrage, and deep concern” over what it called a “horrific act” and a “gross violation of human rights and dignity.”
“This heartbreaking event underscores the urgent need for intensified public awareness, legal enforcement, and community action against domestic violence,” the statement read.
FIDA called for immediate and thorough investigation, prosecution of the perpetrator, and sustained support for survivors of domestic abuse.
Tragically, reports from an unconfirmed source suggest that Amarachi Amala and the couple’s two other children succumbed to their injuries late Monday while receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital, potentially raising the death toll to four.
FIDA Abia urged the public to speak out against domestic violence, support vulnerable individuals, and work collectively to safeguard women and children from abuse.
This tragic incident serves as a grim reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of early intervention, societal vigilance, and legal protection for at-risk families.
The police have not released further details, but the community remains in mourning as investigations continue.
