The usually peaceful Choba community in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has been thrown into deep sorrow following the tragic death of Sunny Amadi, a 32-year-old man who succumbed to severe burns after being allegedly set ablaze by his pregnant girlfriend, Cynthia Chukwundah, a 300-level student of the University of Port Harcourt.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Monday, has left neighbours and students in shock. Witnesses say the couple had been having frequent arguments in recent weeks, with tensions reportedly escalating over issues related to Cynthia’s pregnancy.
“We heard loud screams and saw smoke coming from the apartment. By the time we broke in, both of them were badly burnt,” recounted a neighbour who wished to remain anonymous.
According to preliminary investigations, Cynthia allegedly poured petrol on Sunny while he was asleep and set him on fire. The blaze quickly engulfed the room, leaving both parties with life-threatening injuries.
Race Against Time
Neighbours acted swiftly, rushing both Sunny and Cynthia to the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH). Despite the doctors’ best efforts, Sunny succumbed to third-degree burns less than 24 hours after the incident. Cynthia, who sustained serious burns as well, is currently receiving treatment under police surveillance.
“She is also heavily pregnant with the deceased’s child. Due to her critical condition, she is unable to provide a detailed account of the incident, but will do so when her condition is stable,” confirmed SP Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command.
Investigation Underway
The Rivers State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation to unravel the exact circumstances that led to the tragedy. Forensic experts have been deployed to the scene, while statements are being taken from neighbours, friends, and family members.
“The probable cause of the fire incident is yet to be ascertained, and a thorough investigation has been launched to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident,” SP Iringe-Koko added.
Community leaders have also called for calm, urging residents to allow the police to do their work and avoid spreading unverified rumours.
Community in Shock
The news has sent shockwaves across the University of Port Harcourt campus and the Choba community at large. Many have described the couple as quiet and reserved, making the incident even more difficult to comprehend.
“We never saw this coming. They kept to themselves, but no one knew what was going on behind closed doors,” said a classmate of Cynthia.
Counsellors and religious leaders have begun visiting the area, offering support and prayers to the grieving families.
Quote of the Day
“Anger is one letter short of danger.”
— Eleanor Roosevelt
This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unresolved conflicts and the devastating consequences of domestic violence. As the community mourns the loss of a young life and prays for Cynthia’s recovery, authorities have assured the public that justice will be served.
