The Delta State Police Command has launched a manhunt for a fleeing suspect following the gruesome murder of retired jurist, Justice Ifeoma Okogwo (Rtd), at her residence in Asaba.
In a statement on Sunday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, said the incident was reported on November 24, 2025, when the deceased’s brother visited her home and discovered her lifeless body in the sitting room with her hands, legs, and mouth tied.
He disclosed that upon receiving the distress call, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of ‘A’ Division, Asaba, promptly led officers to the scene, where the corpse was evacuated and deposited at a mortuary for autopsy.
According to the police spokesman, one suspect, Lucky Matthew, has been arrested in connection with the murder, while the principal suspect, Godwin Vanem, remains at large.
“On the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Delta State, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Homicide Section, for discreet investigation,” Edafe said.
He added that preliminary findings indicate Vanem is the prime suspect who committed the act before fleeing the victim’s apartment, prompting the Command to intensify efforts to apprehend him.
Meanwhile, CP Abaniwonda has condoled with the family of the deceased and assured them that justice will be done.
The Police have urged members of the public with useful information to assist the investigation to contact the Command through the emergency lines: 08036684974, 08114895600 and 08025666914.
