A Catholic priest in the Diocese of Awka, Anambra State, Rev. Fr. Jude Muokwe, has allegedly assaulted a 50-year-old widow, Mrs. Ikeorah Maureen, for requesting a salary increase.
Reports indicate that the priest used a whip to flog the widow, inflicting multiple injuries on her. A video circulating on social media shows the primary school teacher in tears, displaying visible wounds reportedly caused by the priest.
Mrs. Ikeorah, a resident of Ifitedunu in Dunukofia Local Government Area, works at Angel Primary School, Ifitedunu, an institution owned and managed by the Catholic mission.
While the exact cause of the incident remains unclear, sources say that the widow and some colleagues were meeting in a classroom to discuss a salary increment proposal when Rev. Fr. Muokwe allegedly entered and began flogging her in the presence of others.
When contacted for comments, the priest did not deny the allegation but declined to discuss the matter.
“I cannot speak to you. I can’t speak, especially to someone I do not know, about this matter,” he responded in a subdued tone.
The incident has sparked outrage, with many calling for an investigation into the alleged assault.
