The Nigerian Police Force is reported to have taken action on December 18, arresting Barrister Ekere Ebong, a Nigerian lawyer, for the brutal assault and humiliation of his wife.
A few days before his arrest, a disturbing viral video captured Barrister Ekere Ebong abusing his wife, who was visibly injured with blood streaming from her mouth and nostrils.
The Akwa Ibom Police Command confirmed the arrest of the Uyo-based lawyer. The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Odiko MacDon, confirmed this in a statement on Monday.
MacDon said the suspect was arrested based on the directive of the state commissioner of police, Olatoye Durosinmi.
“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested one Barrister Ekere Sunday Ebong (55 years) of Plot 40 L Line Ewet Housing Estate,” the statement read in part.
The police concluded their statement indicating that the lawyer would face charges in the near future.
“The CP has warned perpetrators of violent crimes in the state to desist forthwith while urging family members to endeavour to resolve disputes amicably rather than resorting to violent attacks. Barr. Sunday Ebong will have his day in court as soon as the investigation is concluded,” the statement added.
According to a neighbour of the couple, the barrister had subjected his wife to brutality for the past four years.
Reacting to the widely circulated video, several Facebook users condemned Barrister Ekere Ebong’s actions. Dijan Plangkat Luka expressed disdain, stating, “Look at his face, how on earth will you lay hands on a woman no matter the provocation? Real men love, cherish, protect, and respect their women, not batter them.”
Harrison Egwurube took a strong stance, suggesting that Barrister Ekere Ebong should lose his legal licence, stating, “He has no humanity in him. How can a lawyer who should stand to protect victims of such treatment be the one personally committing the act?” Harrison wondered.
The case of this Nigerian lawyer is not an isolated incident. It’s worth noting that domestic violence against women has been escalating in Cameroon. Recent reports indicate that in the year 2023 alone, over 60 women in Cameroon have lost their lives due to violence inflicted by their partners.
