The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed a tragic fire incident in Choba, Port Harcourt, which has claimed the life of a 32-year-old man and left a pregnant university student hospitalized with severe injuries.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the incident occurred at a residential apartment located at No. 11B Okoro Street, Choba. The victim, identified as Saint Sunny Amadi, was reportedly set ablaze in his room by his girlfriend, Cynthia Chukwundah, a 300-level student of the University of Port Harcourt.
Police received the distress report at approximately 11:12 a.m. and officers from the Choba Division immediately responded, visiting both the scene of the incident and the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), where the victim was rushed for emergency treatment. Sadly, despite medical efforts, Amadi succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead while on admission.
Cynthia Chukwundah, who is said to be heavily pregnant with the deceased’s child, also sustained serious burns during the incident and is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital. Due to her critical condition, police say she has been unable to provide a full account of what transpired. Authorities confirmed she will be formally questioned as soon as her health permits.
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, and investigators have launched a thorough inquiry to establish the sequence of events and determine the circumstances surrounding the fatal blaze.
Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju has appealed to the public to remain calm and avoid speculation, assuring that the Command will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that justice is served. He reiterated the police’s commitment to conducting a transparent investigation and updating the public as credible findings emerge.
As of the time of this report, the Choba residence remains under police watch, and forensic investigators are expected to continue gathering evidence in the coming days.