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Mrs. Beatrice Ekweremadu, wife of former Deputy Senate President Senator Ike Ekweremadu, has been released from a United Kingdom prison, bringing joy to her family and community.
Sources revealed that celebrations erupted on Wednesday at her family home in Mpu, Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, following her release.
Beatrice and her husband were convicted in May 2023 on charges of organ harvesting and trafficking. The couple was found guilty of attempting to procure the kidney of a young Nigerian boy for a transplant to save their daughter, Sophia.
In a UK court ruling, Senator Ike Ekweremadu was sentenced to 10 years in prison, while Beatrice received a six-year sentence despite citing poor health during the trial. A medical doctor, Obinna Obeta, also received a prison term for his involvement in the case.
Reacting to the development, Chief Alex Ogbonnia, former National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, expressed gratitude for Beatrice’s release.
“We thank God for His grace upon Senator Ike Ekweremadu and his wife. It’s a moment of jubilation across Enugu State because of the positive impact they’ve had on the lives of many,” Ogbonnia said.
He added, “Senator Ike Ekweremadu, in particular, has represented Enugu West admirably and made significant contributions to the state. We look forward to his eventual return to Nigeria to continue his good work.”
Former PDP National Chairman and ex-governor of Enugu State, Chief Okwesilieze Nwodo, described Beatrice’s release as a relief for her family and the Southeast region. He noted that her return to Nigeria would provide much-needed comfort to her children, who faced challenges during her incarceration.