02-12-2024
A forensic auditor, Mr. Samuel Chukwu, from Amaokwe Item in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, has refuted allegations that he caused the death of his wife, Jessica Olua, describing the claims as a baseless attempt to tarnish his image.
Jessica, 24, tragically passed away on August 21, 2024, shortly after childbirth and was laid to rest on November 29. Her death has been shrouded in controversy, with accusations of spousal abuse leveled against her husband. However, Mr. Chukwu has categorically denied any wrongdoing, attributing her untimely demise to alleged medical negligence during a home delivery facilitated by Jessica’s mother.
Chukwu’s Account of Events
Speaking to ABN News, Mr. Chukwu detailed the timeline of events leading up to his wife’s death. He claimed that Jessica’s mother insisted on taking her daughter back to Aba during the seventh month of pregnancy to care for her. Although initially reluctant, Chukwu said he supported the decision and accompanied his wife to Aba on June 28, 2024, via GUO Jibowu branch transport service.
Chukwu stated that during her stay in Aba, he provided financial and material support, sending a total of ₦47,000 monthly for feeding and other essentials, in addition to supplying toiletries and health products from Lagos.
On August 21, 2024, Jessica went into labor. According to Chukwu, he had sent ₦25,000 to ensure her transportation to a hospital for delivery. However, he alleged that Jessica’s mother ignored medical advice and opted for a home delivery, leading to complications, including the failure of the placenta to detach properly.
Jessica passed away shortly after delivering her child. Chukwu emphasized that he was unaware she was in active labor during their phone conversations on August 20, 2024, as this information had been concealed from him.
Refuting the Allegations
Chukwu vehemently denied claims of domestic violence, arguing that he could not have harmed his wife while she was in Aba and he was in Lagos.
“All our communications before her death showed no signs of conflict or distress. I have WhatsApp chats and call logs to corroborate this, which will be presented in court,” he said.
He also questioned why no autopsy was conducted before her burial, adding that he had invested heavily in Jessica’s health, happiness, and wellbeing, including paying for antenatal care at a reputable Lagos medical center before her move to Aba.
In-Laws’ Alleged Assault
Following Jessica’s death, Chukwu said he traveled to Aba to understand the circumstances of her passing but was met with hostility. He alleged that his in-laws attacked him and his brother, leaving them with severe injuries, including a dislocated leg, facial wounds, and a swollen skull. The Rapid Response Squad, Eziama Division, reportedly intervened to rescue them.
Chukwu subsequently reported the incident to the CPS Aba Division, filing a case of attempted murder. The DPO issued a police report enabling him to receive medical treatment.
Legal Action
Chukwu’s lawyer, Chief Gabriel Emperor Ogbonna, is gathering evidence, including medical records from Jessica’s antenatal care in Lagos, financial statements, and communication logs, to prove his innocence in court.
“This loss has been devastating for me and my family. I loved my wife and invested in her wellbeing. These accusations are not only false but deeply hurtful,” Chukwu stated.
He urged the public to disregard the allegations, maintaining that his wife’s death was a tragic medical event and not a result of foul play.
