Mpu community in Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State erupted in joy on Wednesday. The celebration marked the return of Mrs. Beatrice Ekweremadu, wife of former Deputy Senate President Senator Ike Ekweremadu, from a United Kingdom prison.
Our correspondent confirmed that Mrs. Ekweremadu, sentenced in May 2023 for her involvement in an organ trafficking case, returned to Nigeria on Tuesday.
Ekweremadu’s Wife’s Conviction and Release
Mrs. Ekweremadu, her husband, and Dr. Obinna Obeta were convicted for attempting to harvest the kidney of a 21-year-old Lagos street trader. The plot aimed to secure a kidney for their daughter, Sonia, who was battling kidney disease.
The young trader, however, escaped in the UK and reported the case to the police. This led to the arrest and subsequent conviction of the Ekweremadus on May 5, 2023.
The UK court sentenced Senator Ike Ekweremadu to nine years and eight months in prison. His wife, Mrs. Ekweremadu, received a sentence of four years and six months. Dr. Obinna Obeta, who served as a middleman, got a 10-year sentence, and his medical license was suspended.
Mpu Community Rejoices Over Ekweremadu’s Wife’s Return
The return of Mrs. Ekweremadu sparked a wave of celebrations across the Mpu community. The President of Mpu Town Union Federated, Mr. Benjamin Chijioke, described her return as a relief for the entire community.
“Our joy as Mpu people knows no bounds. This is a great day for us. Since morning, it has been jubilation and celebration across all the villages,” Chijioke stated.
He highlighted how the absence of the Ekweremadu family had affected many community members who benefited from their philanthropy.
Celebrations Coincide with Orie Market Day
The celebration coincided with the community’s Orie market day, turning the marketplace into a hub of festivities. Chijioke expressed hope for Senator Ike Ekweremadu’s eventual return.
“We thank God and pray that He intervenes so that our illustrious son and leader, distinguished Senator Ike Ekweremadu, will soon return home in good health,” he said.
Gratitude for Ekweremadu’s Wife’s Return
Mpu Ward Councillor, Ogbuka Edwin, also expressed joy over Mrs. Ekweremadu’s return. He acknowledged the gap created in the community during the absence of the Ekweremadu family.
“It feels like a public holiday here in Mpu. The news brought so much cheer. We will continue to pray until our leader and hero, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, rejoins his family,” Edwin remarked.
Social Media Overflows with Celebratory Messages
Social media platforms linked to the Mpu community were flooded with messages celebrating Mrs. Ekweremadu’s return.
One message read: “Daalu Ezinne! But I can’t wait until I see Ikeoha Global! The man who made me who I am politically—a builder of people and structures. New things will happen soon!”
Another wrote: “May God’s name be praised now and always, Amen. It can only be God.”
Amidst the joy, one community member shared: “Waoooi, good news! Thank you for everything. Dear mummy, you are highly, highly welcome, ma!”
