Villagers in Ikwuano LGA, Abia State, staged a dramatic protest at the Anti-Cult Police Unit in Olokoro, carrying the lifeless body of Mrs. Williams, wife of Ejike Williams, the Leader of the Ikwuano Legislative Council.

Mrs. Williams, who had given birth just nine days ago, reportedly collapsed and died while her husband and three other councillors were allegedly detained and assaulted by police over a petition reportedly filed by a revenue agent.

Angry residents insisted that the police take responsibility for her death, claiming Ejike Williams was denied access to his wife in her final moments. The body was later deposited at Madonna Hospital Mortuary to allow for a full investigation.

Chimeremeze Emeruwa, Special Assistant to Governor Alex Otti, said he was assaulted by a police officer while pleading for the release of Ejike Williams. The detained councillors—Ejike Williams, Sunday Uche Okoro, Ukazu Ejike, and Akobundu Agomou—also alleged they were beaten in custody despite paying large sums for bail.

The councillors maintained that their detention arose from an unsubstantiated petition, sparking outrage and calls for legal action against police misconduct.