ENUGU, Nigeria (FN) — A woman identified as Chisom Okonkwo has been arraigned before a Magistrate Court in Enugu for allegedly making false accusations against her husband, Mr. Ozioma Okonkwo, whom she had earlier accused of molesting and defiling their two young daughters.
The allegation surfaced in August 2024 during a domestic dispute at their residence in Emene, Enugu. Chisom publicly claimed that Mr. Okonkwo had sexually abused their 2-year-old and 5-year-old daughters, prompting police to arrest him on 25 October 2025.
Following medical examinations and investigations, authorities found no evidence to support the claims. Mr. Okonkwo was released, and the police subsequently charged Chisom with defamation and giving false information.
She is currently in police custody pending further court proceedings. The police stated that her actions were “malicious and misleading,” and that she acted with intent to harm her husband’s image.
The case has sparked public debate about the dangers of false accusations and the need for thorough investigations before arrests are made. “This case shows how damaging false claims can be,” said Ifeanyi Nwodo, a legal analyst in Enugu. “It’s important that justice is pursued fairly and responsibly.”
Some residents expressed sympathy for Mr. Okonkwo. “Imagine being accused of something so serious and then cleared,” said Grace Umeh, a teacher. “That kind of trauma doesn’t just go away.”
Others called for support systems to help families resolve disputes without resorting to public allegations. “We need more counseling and mediation services,” said activist Ngozi Ibe. “This kind of breakdown hurts everyone involved, especially the children.”
Legal experts say the outcome of the case could set a precedent for handling defamation and false reporting in domestic disputes. The court is expected to continue hearing the matter in the coming weeks.
