A disagreement over who infected the other with HIV has ended in a tragic murder case in Enugu State, where a 30-year-old man is now standing trial for allegedly killing his 27-year-old girlfriend.
The Enugu State Police Command on Friday said it had arraigned Okpara Chibuike Emmanuel over the alleged murder of Ugwu Chinyere Rosemary, which occurred in September 2026.
Police said the suspect was arraigned on October 16, 2026, after investigations were concluded. The court remanded him in a correctional facility and directed that the case file be forwarded to the Enugu State Attorney-General through the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for review and legal advice.
According to the police, Emmanuel was arrested on September 21, 2026, after officers rescued him from an angry mob following the incident.
Investigators alleged that the suspect killed his girlfriend inside his apartment on September 19, 2026, during a heated argument over who infected the other with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
Police alleged that he struck the victim on the head with a pestle before inflicting deep machete cuts on her head and neck. Her right wrist was also allegedly severed during the attack. Investigators said the severed wrist and other exhibits were recovered from the apartment.
The case has drawn attention because it highlights how fear, stigma and accusations surrounding HIV can escalate into deadly violence. Health experts have repeatedly advised that HIV status should only be confirmed through medical testing and managed with counselling and treatment rather than violence or blame.
Commenting on the development, the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to tackling violent crimes and ensuring that offenders are brought to justice through diligent investigation and prosecution.
If convicted, the suspect could face the penalties prescribed under Nigerian law for the alleged offence.