The arrest of a popular social media personality, Ifeanyi Ogbonna, widely known as “Odogwu of Asaba,” by the Delta State Police Command has triggered widespread public concern and renewed calls for justice over sexual violence and the protection of young women in Nigeria.

Ogbonna, 40, was arrested in connection with the alleged rape of a 20-year-old woman who later died after reportedly taking a poisonous substance following the incident.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Delta State Command, SP Bright Edafe, the Command received a petition alleging that the deceased had travelled to Asaba on June 1, 2026, after being invited by the suspect, who allegedly promised to train her in content creation through a programme advertised on his social media platforms.

Police said that upon arriving in Asaba, the young woman was allegedly taken to a hotel by the suspect, where she was reportedly raped and physically assaulted.

The victim was said to have returned home traumatised and emotionally devastated, subsequently narrating the incident to her parents. Before her death, she reportedly recorded a video detailing her alleged ordeal and the severe emotional distress she suffered in the aftermath of the encounter.

Investigators disclosed that the young woman later ingested a toxic substance in an apparent suicide attempt and was rushed for medical attention but eventually died.

The tragic incident has generated outrage across social media platforms, with many Nigerians demanding a thorough investigation and justice for the deceased.

Following receipt of the petition, the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, directed the Area Command in Effurun to launch an immediate investigation into the allegations.

The police said operatives acted swiftly, leading to the arrest of Ogbonna. During preliminary interrogation, the suspect reportedly made statements considered useful to investigators, while further inquiries continue to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

CP Oyeniyi assured the bereaved family and members of the public that the Command would conduct a comprehensive and professional investigation, stressing that no aspect of the allegations would be ignored.

“The Command remains committed to ensuring justice and appropriate legal action in accordance with the law,” the police boss stated. (The Guardian)

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