‘My sister wasn’t killed over HIV’ — Family demands justice for slain Enugu lady

The family of Enugu resident and event planner, Chinyere Susan Rosemary Ugwu, widely known as ITCHINNYS, has demanded a thorough and transparent investigation into her murder. Rosemary's eldest sister, Kenechi Maryam, made this plea in a statement on Thursday as reports emerged surrounding her sister's demise. The family is skeptical of claims that Rosemary's death was due to HIV, insisting that such assertions should remain unconfirmed until the investigation concludes.

Maryam recounted witnessing an interview with the alleged perpetrator in the presence of the Commissioner of Police, her younger brother, parents, and an aunt who is also a police officer. She recounted that the suspect initially claimed to have used a pestle to attack Rosemary, but modified his account when questioned about specific injuries found on her body, now suggesting he used a machete.

The family seeks clarification on the nature of Rosemary's injuries, the tool used to inflict them, and the circumstances surrounding the placement of her body inside a toilet within the apartment. Maryam also questioned the presence of items including a calabash, candles, and a red cloth or rope in the apartment. She cautioned against jumping to conclusions, stating that these are questions necessitating a proper investigation and evidence.

The bereaved family further appealed to police, medical experts, and other pertinent authorities to carry out a comprehensive, transparent, and impartial inquiry into the events leading to Rosemary's death. They also implored journalists, bloggers, human rights advocates, lawyers, and responsible social media users not to reduce the tragic incident to a speculative headline.

Maryam described her sister as a diligent, determined young lady who worked tirelessly to build her own life. She remembered Rosemary as someone's daughter, sister, and friend who had aspirations, plans, and a future ahead of her. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding her death, Maryam insisted, she deserves the truth.