Two young men accused of murdering a student during a bonfire night event at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), have been arraigned in court and ordered to be remanded in correctional custody.
The Enugu State Police Command confirmed that the suspects, identified as 27-year-old Ezema Onyedikachi and 21-year-old Ugwu Chigozie Anthony, are facing a two-count charge of conspiracy and murder over the killing of 29-year-old Nweze Chiebonam.
According to a statement issued on Thursday, September 25, 2025, by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, the incident occurred during a bonfire organised by the Faculty of Arts, Department of Archaeology/Heritage Studies, on September 12, 2025.
Investigations revealed that the altercation began when Ugwu’s vehicle had a minor collision with that of the deceased around 3 a.m., shortly after the event ended. Although the matter was initially resolved, police findings show that the suspects later conspired, armed themselves with a dagger, and launched a fresh attack on Chiebonam.
“In the course of the assault, Ezema Onyedikachi collected the dagger from Ugwu Anthony and stabbed the deceased fatally in the chest,” Ndukwe said. Chiebonam was rushed to the hospital, where doctors confirmed him dead. The dagger used in the crime was recovered as evidence.
The Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, described the killing as both unfortunate and avoidable. He extended condolences to the family of the deceased and cautioned youths against resorting to violence.
“He advised citizens, particularly young people, to eschew violence, exercise self-control, and always resolve disputes peacefully,” the statement added.
The case, which has drawn wide attention within the university community, is expected to continue in court as the suspects face trial.