A couple, Chisom Chukwunyere and her husband, Chukwudi, have pleaded not guilty to a five-count charge bordering on conspiracy, grievous harm and attempted murder of an 11-year-old child in their care, Chiziterem Frank Ozuruigbo.
They entered the plea before the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Court, Awka, presided over by Justice Peace Otti, following charges brought against them by the Anambra State Government.
The offences were allegedly committed on or about June 9, 2026, at No. 23 Obinna-James Street, Odume, Obosi.
According to the charge sheet, the couple conspired to unlawfully cause grievous harm to the child.
The prosecution alleged that the first defendant, Chisom, in furtherance of the conspiracy, repeatedly assaulted the boy and burnt him with thermally liquefied plastic.
The second defendant, Chukwudi, was alleged to have known about the injuries inflicted by his wife but failed to secure medical treatment for the child and kept him away from school while the injuries healed.
In count two, both defendants were accused of causing grievous harm to Chiziterem by repeatedly beating him and applying liquefied plastic to his body, thereby causing severe burn injuries.
In count three, Chisom alone was accused of attempting to kill the child by repeatedly beating him and applying liquefied plastic to various parts of his body, inflicting injuries capable of endangering his life.
In counts four and five, she was further accused of offensive conduct against the minor and willfully placing him in fear of physical injury.
After their not guilty plea, counsel to the defendants informed the court that they intend to pursue a plea bargain. The prosecution did not oppose the application.
The Anambra State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke, SAN, led the state prosecution team alongside Amara Muojeke and others, while Chief Ugo Ugwunnadi and C.C. Udeaja appeared for the first and second defendants respectively.
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