By Iniubong Sam
Operatives of the Akwa Ibom State Police Command have arrested a 32-year-old man, Ndifreke Isaiah Nelson, for allegedly murdering his girlfriend, Emem Monday Effanga, 39, and stealing her mobile phone after the crime.
According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the police received a report in February 2025 that the deceased was found dead in her apartment under suspicious circumstances. “Upon arrival at the scene, officers observed visible marks of violence on her face and neck, indicating that she had been strangled and beaten to death, DSP Timfon John said.
The Police Public Relations Office state that the police processed relevant information about the crime scene, documented evidence, and evacuated the body to a hospital, where medical personnel confirmed the victim clinically dead. Her remains were later deposited at the mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
“Following an intensive investigation, detectives traced the last known person seen with the deceased to be Ndifreke Isaiah Nelson. It was discovered that he had visited her residence on the morning of February 6, 2025, which was also his birthday.”
The suspect was later tracked to a church in Uyo, where he attempted to escape upon sighting police operatives. However, he was swiftly pursued and apprehended.
During interrogation, Nelson confessed to visiting the victim that morning and requesting to use her phone to take pictures for his birthday celebration on social media. When she refused, an argument ensued, leading to a struggle. He admitted to overpowering her, strangling her with his hands, and striking her head on the floor with fist blows, rendering her unconscious before fleeing with her phone.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command also revealed that at the time of his arrest, police recovered the deceased’s Itel Super Phone from him.
A post-mortem examination has been conducted, and a pathologist has officially documented the cause of death. The police confirmed that the suspect will be charged in court.
The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, reassured the public that justice will be served. He also warned against all forms of domestic violence and criminal acts, urging citizens to remain security conscious and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities.
