Beatrice Ekweremadu, wife of former Deputy Senate President Senator Ike Ekweremadu, has been released from a United Kingdom prison.
The news of her release sparked celebrations on Wednesday in her hometown, Mpu, located in the Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State.
Mrs. Ekweremadu and her husband were convicted in May 2023 on charges of organ trafficking and harvesting.
The couple had been accused of attempting to procure a kidney from a young Nigerian boy to save their daughter, Sophia, who required a transplant.
Alongside them, a medical doctor, Obinna Obeta, was also sentenced.
While Senator Ike Ekweremadu received a 10-year prison sentence, Beatrice was sentenced to six years, despite presenting a case of poor health during the trial.
Speaking on her release, Enugu residents expressed joy and gratitude.
Hon. Ogbonnia, a prominent figure in the community, said, “We thank God for His grace upon Senator Ike Ekweremadu and his wife. This is a moment of celebration across Enugu State. The Ekweremadus have used their positions to make significant impacts on many lives.
“Senator Ike represented Enugu West excellently and contributed immensely to the development of the state. We hope he will soon return to Nigeria to continue his good work.”
Chief Okwesilieze Nwodo, former national chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and ex-governor of Enugu State, also expressed relief at Mrs. Ekweremadu’s freedom.
He described it as a welcome development not only for the family but for the entire Southeast region.
According to him, her return would help ease the emotional burden her children faced during her incarceration.
The release of Beatrice Ekweremadu marks a significant moment for her family and community, as many await further updates regarding her husband’s status.
