Owa Monarch Demands Justice Over Murder of 7-Year-Old Boy, Urges Calm

The Owa monarch, His Royal Majesty Dr. E. O. Efeizomor II, OON, JP, has called on the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the alleged killing of seven-year-old Master Progress Ifeanyi in Owa Alero, Delta State.

The monarch made the call on Saturday, August 29, 2026, during a press briefing on the death of the minor, whose tragic incident reportedly occurred on November 23, 2024.

Expressing deep sorrow over the incident, the monarch described the death of the child as a tragedy that had brought immense pain to his family, Owa Alero community and the entire Owa Kingdom.

According to him, a child represents hope and the promise of the future, stressing that the loss of a young life under disturbing circumstances was a matter of grave concern.

The monarch said information and allegations surrounding the case suggested that the deceased was allegedly lured from his home by one Destiny Lawrence, also known as “Samanja,” a native of Owa Alero, following an alleged request by a person identified as Onyeka, described in the allegations as a native doctor from Idumuesah.

He further stated that allegations had been made that the boy was subsequently killed and that his death was connected to an alleged ritual purpose, with other individuals also mentioned in connection with the incident.

However, the Owa monarch cautioned against treating the allegations as established facts, stressing that the truth must be determined through a proper, impartial and comprehensive investigation.

He said: “The facts surrounding these allegations must be established through a proper, thorough, and impartial investigation by the appropriate law-enforcement and judicial authorities. It is important that we do not allow anger, rumours, or speculation to replace evidence and due process.”

The traditional ruler condemned any act that threatens human life, declaring that no cultural practice, spiritual belief, ritual activity or pursuit of wealth could justify the killing of an innocent person.

He called on the Nigeria Police Force and relevant investigative agencies to ensure that every person connected with the allegations was properly investigated, while urging authorities to preserve and examine all relevant evidence.

The monarch also insisted that anyone found culpable through due process must face the full consequences of the law.

He declared: “No person is above the law. Whether such a person is rich or poor, powerful or weak, highly placed or ordinary, traditional or political, anyone found guilty through the lawful process must be held accountable for his actions.”

While demanding justice for the deceased, Dr. Efeizomor appealed to youths of Owa Kingdom, particularly those in Owa Alero, as well as residents of neighbouring communities, to remain calm and reject violence, revenge attacks and mob action.

He warned that allowing the tragedy to trigger further violence could lead to additional loss of lives and destruction of property.

The monarch reaffirmed that Owa Kingdom values human life, dignity, peace and justice, adding that the kingdom does not condone human sacrifice, ritual killing or any practice that violates the sanctity of human life.

He extended his condolences to the parents, family members, friends and loved ones of Master Progress Ifeanyi, saying the grief of the family was shared by the entire Owa Kingdom.

He prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved family and called for the truth to be uncovered through credible evidence and the rule of law.

The monarch said the circumstances surrounding the death of the seven-year-old should serve as a reminder of society’s collective responsibility to protect children and vulnerable members of the community.

He concluded by urging authorities to ensure that justice prevailed, while praying that God would grant eternal rest to the soul of Master Progress Ifeanyi.