An Enugu State High Court has issued a verdict of death by hanging for Chiamaka Ifezue, the perpetrator behind the tragic demise of the 27-year-old makeup artist, Ijeoma Nneke, on November 11, 2020.
In the sentencing, Justice K.I Okpe, concurring with the prosecution led by Mrs. Chinelo Chigbo from the Department of Public Prosecution, affirmed Ifezue’s culpability in the demise of the talented makeup artist based in Enugu. Consequently, Miss Ifezue was found guilty of murder and sentenced to the ultimate penalty of death by hanging.
Chukwuemeka Ifezue, Chiamaka’s sibling, who was also implicated in the crime, was acquitted of all charges by Justice Okpe on July 28, 2022. The court found no evidence implicating him in the commission of the crime.
The charges against the Ifezue siblings, Chiamaka and Chukwuemeka, included conspiracy and murder, stemming from allegations that they coerced Ijeoma Nneke into consuming a poisonous substance that led to her demise. Following her death, the suspects purportedly disposed of her body in the Maryland area of Enugu and applied a corrosive substance, suspected to be acid, to the remains.
During the trial, crucial evidence, including various items recovered from the crime scene, was presented by the prosecution. These exhibits encompassed currency, electronic devices such as iPhones and Blackberry phones, as well as makeup tools belonging to the deceased. Additionally, the key to a Toyota Matrix Scan, allegedly used to transport the victim’s body, was presented as evidence.
Despite the compelling case built against Chiamaka Ifezue, her sibling, Chukwuemeka, was absolved of any involvement in the crime, thanks to a no-case submission filed by his Counsel, Mr. Chuma Oguejiofor.
The court’s decision to deliver justice in the case of Makeup Artist, Ijeoma, serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability for heinous acts perpetrated against innocent individuals.