The peaceful town of Owheologbo in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State has been rocked by the brutal murder of a local cement dealer and Point-of-Sale (PoS) operator, Miss Happy Odhegba, allegedly at the hands of a man known in the area as “Mr. Mayor.”
The suspect, described as a middle-aged man who had been living in the community for about six months, is currently on the run.
Residents said he attacked Odhegba following a heated dispute, killing her with a hammer and an axe in his apartment before fleeing the scene on Lady’s motorcycle.
The incident, which has plunged the community into mourning, is believed to have been premeditated.
“This is a tragic loss,” said the President-General of the community, Mr. Morrison Iluesure. “Happy was the breadwinner of her family.
“There is sadness not only in her home but across the entire community.”
He revealed that a ₦1 million reward has been offered for any information that leads to the arrest of the suspect.
Human rights activist, Comrade Israel Joe, condemned the killing and alleged that the suspect had lured the victim to his home, sent his girlfriend away, then strangled and inflicted multiple injuries on her before escaping.
“He switched off his phone and vanished,” Joe said. “We demand justice for Happy.”
The killing sparked outrage among residents, with angry youths staging protests and calling for Mayor’s immediate arrest.
Police have since sealed off the crime scene and launched a manhunt for the suspect.
As part of the investigation, two individuals, including the man who introduced the suspect to the community and the landlord of the house, have been arrested for questioning.
Spokesperson for the Delta State Police Command, DSP Bright Edafe, confirmed the incident and said investigation is underway.
The victim’s remains have been deposited at a local mortuary for autopsy as security operatives intensify efforts to track down the fleeing suspect.