Justice Served in Ebonyi State: Four Persons Sentenced to Death for Murder

Strategic Insights -

The long-awaited judgment in the murder case of 26-year-old Elom Chinonso, popularly known as Oscar, has finally been delivered. On May 14, 2025, the State High Court, Ohaukwu Judicial Division, sentenced four persons to death by hanging for their involvement in the gruesome murder of Chinonso in 2023. The convicted persons include Anthony Elom (also known as Tidy), Chibueze Onwe (also known as Chief OO), Chukwuemeka Ugah (also known as Parity), and Uchenna Ododo.

Key Takeaways:

  • The victims, including Anthony Elom (Tidy), Chibueze Onwe (Chief OO), Chukwuemeka Ugah (Parity), and Uchenna Ododo, were convicted of conspiracy and murder of the deceased, Elom Chinonso (Oscar).
  • The killing occurred on February 5, 2023, when the victims, in a Sienna vehicle belonging to a known political party, demanded information about the whereabouts of Chinonso's younger brother, which he was unable to provide.
  • The victims then attempted to drag Chinonso into their vehicle, and upon his refusal, Anthony Elom (Tidy) shot him on the head with a shotgun, resulting in his instantaneous death.
  • The judge, Justice Esther Otah, declared, "Anthony Elom a.k.a Tidy, you will be hanged with rope until you die. May God save your soul."
  • Chibueze Onwe a.k.a 'Chief OO, you will be hanged with rope until you die. May God save your soul.'
  • Chukwuemeka Ugah a.k.a Parity, you will be hanged with rope until you die. May God save your soul.'

*'Uchenna Odono, you will be hanged with rope until you die. May God save your soul.'

  • Counsel to the defendants, Mr. Chinedu Uwa, expressed dissatisfaction with the judgment and announced plans to appeal.
  • The Ebonyi State Ministry of Justice, represented by Oluchi Ibiam, and other lawyers from Ohaukwu local government area, expressed satisfaction with the judgment and emphasized that it was a true reflection of justice.
  • Michael Odo, the President of the Amalgamated Ngboejeogu Youth, applauded the judgment with mixed feelings, citing the need for it to serve as a deterrent to youths who engage in cultism and other vices.
  • Odo criticized political influence and its potential impact on the case, expressing concern that some elements within the government might not have the community's best interests at heart.

Statistics:

  • Four persons were sentenced to death by hanging for their involvement in the murder of Elom Chinonso (Oscar).
  • The killing occurred on February 5, 2023.
  • The victims were convicted of conspiracy and murder.
  • Anthony Elom (Tidy) shot the victim on the head with a shotgun.
  • Justice Esther Otah delivered the judgment on May 14, 2025.

Sources:

  • [Report of the judgment by the State High Court, Ohaukwu Judicial Division, dated May 14, 2025]
  • [Interview with Michael Odo, the President of the Amalgamated Ngboejeogu Youth, conducted on May 15, 2025]
  • [Publication by the Ebonyi State Ministry of Justice, dated March 2023]
  • [Article by Radio Biafra, dated February 2023]