Soludo suspends LG chairman for allegedly beating wife to death

The Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has suspended Mbazulike Iloka, Transition Chairman of Nnewi North Local Government Area, over the hazy circumstances surrounding the death of his wife, Chidiebere Iloka.

She was said to have collapsed and died on August 7, but some allege that she was a victim of domestic violence.

Tony Collins Neabunwanne, Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, who signed the suspension letter, said Mbazulike had to be suspended to make room for an unfettered investigation of the incident.

The letter read: “Following the sad and sudden death of your wife, the late Mrs Chidiebere Iloka on August 7, there has been a massive public outcry over the circumstances leading to the cause of her death, including alleged possible homicide.

“While you are presumed innocent until the completion of the investigation, it has become imperative that you step aside to allow for unfettered investigation.

“Consequently, you are directed to step aside and handover the affairs of the local council to the Head of Local Government Administration not later than August 12, until further notice.”

Mazulike was sworn in alongside 20 other transition committee chairmen on August 2, 2022.