Final-Year Law Student Killed During Visit To Boyfriend In Delta
Final-Year Student’s Visit Ends in Tragedy
WHAT began as a routine visit from Rivers State to Delta State ended in tragedy after a final-year law student of the University of Port Harcourt, Favour Aruwa Habibatu, was allegedly killed inside her boyfriend’s apartment in Warri.
The incident, which has generated widespread concern and renewed conversations about relationship-related violence, reportedly occurred at Ayidi Street in the Edjeba area of Warri, where the deceased had travelled to visit her boyfriend, identified as Michael Ade.
Journey from Port Harcourt
According to accounts from residents and people familiar with the deceased, Habibatu was seen in Choba, Port Harcourt, on the day she departed for Warri.
Neighbours in Warri said the young woman arrived safely and was later observed purchasing food items before returning to her boyfriend’s residence.
Residents described the couple as being in a longstanding relationship, noting that Habibatu frequently visited Warri and was often seen with Michael in his Lexus SUV.
Neighbours Respond to Distress Calls
The situation reportedly changed dramatically later that evening when loud cries for help were heard from inside the apartment.
The landlord of the property allegedly responded immediately after hearing the screams, alerting members of the local community and notifying the police.
To prevent anyone from leaving the premises before security operatives arrived, the landlord reportedly positioned his vehicle to block the suspect’s SUV.
Witnesses said Michael later emerged from the apartment requesting that the vehicle be moved, claiming he had an emergency that required him to leave.
However, community members insisted that he first explain the source of the disturbance before leaving the premises.
Victim Found in Pool of Blood
When residents entered the apartment, they reportedly found the young woman lying motionless in a pool of blood.
Police officers who arrived shortly afterwards arrested the suspect and evacuated the victim’s body to a morgue for further examination.
Initial reports alleged that the victim sustained multiple stab wounds.
Investigation Underway
Authorities are expected to conduct a full investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the killing, including establishing motive and reviewing forensic evidence.
Although some residents speculated that the crime may have been connected to ritual motives, law enforcement authorities have not publicly confirmed such claims.
Investigators are expected to rely on evidence gathered from the crime scene, witness statements, and autopsy findings before reaching any official conclusions.
Renewed Focus on Relationship Violence
The incident has reignited concerns over rising cases of intimate partner violence and the vulnerability of young women in abusive relationships.
Legal experts and civil society organisations continue to advocate for greater public awareness, early reporting of threats, and stronger mechanisms for protecting victims of domestic and relationship-related violence.
The case also serves as a painful reminder of the devastating consequences that can arise when violent disputes escalate behind closed doors.
