OSISIOMA, Nigeria — A horrific case of domestic violence has rocked Abia State, Nigeria, after a man allegedly set his wife and children ablaze over suspicions of infidelity, killing one of his daughters and severely injuring the others. The incident occurred in the Asa Umudim community of Osisioma Local Government Area in the early hours of Saturday.
The suspect, identified as Udochi Amala, age 40, reportedly drenched his home with a flammable substance before igniting the fire. His actions, allegedly fueled by accusations that his wife was engaging in extramarital affairs and receiving frequent calls from suspected lovers, resulted in a deadly blaze.
One of the couple’s daughters died in the inferno, while the wife, Amarachi Amala, and two other children sustained critical burns. An unconfirmed report later indicated that Amarachi and the two surviving children succumbed to their injuries on Monday at an undisclosed hospital.
Amala, who was also burned in the incident, allegedly tried to flee the scene but was apprehended by police following intervention from enraged community members who nearly lynched him. The body of the deceased child has been taken to a mortuary, and the suspect remains in custody.
In a disturbing initial confession, Amala reportedly said, “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 also admitted he had not caught his wife with another man, according to early reports.
The Abia State Police Command,Nigeria, through its Public Relations Officer DSP Maureen Chinaka, confirmed the incident: “Yes, the police are aware. Investigation is ongoing.”
The case has drawn condemnation from advocacy groups, including the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Abia State branch, which denounced the act as a “gross violation of human rights and dignity.”
In a joint statement signed by Chairperson Njideka Aniawonwa and Secretary Eberechukwu Kanu Oji, FIDA Abia expressed “shock, outrage, and deep concern” over the incident. The group called for a thorough investigation and justice for the victims, while demanding stronger protections for women and children vulnerable to domestic violence.
“This tragic event underscores the urgent need for communities and authorities to take domestic violence and child abuse more seriously,” the statement read. “We urge the public to report such cases promptly and support survivors in rebuilding their lives.”
Authorities have yet to release an official update on the condition of the surviving family members or formal charges against the suspect. Meanwhile, the community of Asa Umudim continues to mourn the devastating loss.
