The father of a 28-year-old tailor allegedly hacked to death by her husband in Ekiti State has demanded justice, insisting that those responsible for the brutal killing must be brought to book.

The victim, Kehinde Onizeokaraga, was reportedly killed during a domestic dispute in the Dalimore area of Ado-Ekiti after efforts to reconcile the couple ended in tragedy. Her husband, identified as Ibrahim Sodiq, popularly known as Alfa Eleran, is alleged to have attacked her repeatedly with a machete before fleeing the scene.

Speaking through family members, the bereaved father described the incident as heartbreaking, saying his daughter had been trying to leave the troubled marriage after months of unresolved marital problems.

According to the family, Kehinde had planned to relocate to her sister’s residence in Idoani, Ondo State, but was persuaded to attend a reconciliation meeting at the home of a family friend, Lamidi Salawu. Unbeknownst to her, her husband was also present.

The meeting reportedly deteriorated into a violent confrontation during which Sodiq allegedly attacked his wife with a machete, inflicting fatal injuries that claimed her life.

A cousin of the deceased, Lawrence Yusuf, said the family believes the killing was premeditated, alleging that Kehinde had become increasingly fearful after noticing that some of her clothes and underwear had mysteriously disappeared from their home.

He further claimed that the suspect fled with the victim’s mobile phone, which relatives believe could contain information relevant to the police investigation.

“We want Sodiq to be found and arrested. We want justice for Kehinde. Her parents are in pains, and the entire family is in agony. She didn’t deserve this,” the family said.

The incident has sparked outrage among residents of Ado-Ekiti and renewed concerns over the rising cases of domestic violence and intimate partner killings across the country.

Police sources said some individuals present during the reconciliation meeting, including the homeowner and other witnesses, have been taken into custody to assist investigators, while the principal suspect remains at large.

The Ekiti State Police Command confirmed that an investigation is ongoing and assured the public that efforts are being intensified to apprehend the fleeing suspect.

The family has appealed to the state government and security agencies to ensure that justice is not delayed, stressing that Kehinde’s death should serve as a strong warning against domestic violence and gender-based abuse.