A disturbing incident occurred on Azikiwe Street, Mile 2 Diobu, Port Harcourt, on Wednesday, when a man, identified as Ejike, allegedly poured hot water on the face and chest of his neighbour, a 31-year-old stylist named Blessing.
According to eyewitnesses, Blessing had entered the compound to collect boiling water from an electric kettle for a customer’s hair treatment when she accidentally collided with Ejike’s son. The impact caused hot water to spill on the ground, slightly scalding the child’s leg.
While Blessing was apologising and expressing concern for the child, Ejike reportedly emerged from his room to inquire about what had happened. Upon being informed by neighbours, he allegedly picked up the kettle and poured the remaining hot water on Blessing.
Ejike fled the scene immediately, leaving Blessing with severe burns. She was rushed to the Azikiwe Police Division in Ilabouchi, where she was issued a police medical form before being taken to hospital for treatment.
Blessing’s family is now calling for justice. Her elder brother, Goodluck Nwankwo, has urged the police to arrest Ejike, saying, “We want the police to arrest him so he can face the consequences of his actions. I want justice to be done.”
Nwankwo also expressed concern over the cost of his sister’s medical treatment, describing the expenses as overwhelming.
The Rivers State Police Command spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe Koko, was unavailable for comment at the time of this report. However, police sources confirmed the incident and stated that efforts were being made to apprehend Ejike, who remains at large.