Market women under the Ikpoba Hill Market Women Association took to the streets yesterday in Benin City to protest the brutal killing of 36-year-old Success Izekor, allegedly murdered by her husband, Kelvin Izekor.
During the protest, Mrs Odion Asemota, one of the demonstrators, recounted how the late Success was stabbed in the neck by her husband while lying in bed. She tragically lost her life along with her four-month-old pregnancy.
Describing the deceased as a peaceful trader at Ikpoba Hill Market, Asemota stated that they would not allow her death to be ignored. She also alleged that the suspect’s mother had been boasting about using her influence to secure her son’s release, a claim that further fueled the women’s outrage.
“We will not allow this to happen. We call on the government and all well-meaning Nigerians to ensure justice is served,” Asemota declared.
Mrs Ugiagbe Iziegbe, the elder sister of the deceased, revealed that her late sister had endured repeated physical abuse from her husband. She pleaded with both the federal and state governments to intervene and ensure justice.
Confirming the incident, Edo State Police Public Relations Officer Moses Yamu stated that Kelvin Izekor was nearly lynched by an angry mob before police intervened.
“On 22/02/2025 at about 22:00 hrs, we received information that one Kelvin Izekor of No. 50 Upper Mission Extension, Benin City, had killed his wife, Success Izekor, 38 years old. An irate mob was about to lynch him when operatives from Aduwawa Division swiftly responded,” Yamu said.
Upon arrival, officers found the victim lying in a pool of blood with deep cuts on her head. She was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead. The suspect was taken into custody for further investigation.
Edo State Commissioner of Police Betty Otimenyin condemned the rising cases of domestic violence, assuring the public of a thorough investigation and vowing that those found guilty would face the full weight of the law.
