The body of Chimaobi, the young boy allegedly murdered in a suspected ritual killing involving an Enugu-based businessman popularly known as Ezeani, also called “E dey play, E dey show,” is scheduled to be laid to rest on Friday, June 28, 2025.
His burial will take place at his father’s compound, bringing a somber closure to a case that has shocked the nation and sparked widespread outrage.
Chimaobi’s death drew intense public attention following revelations that he may have been a victim of ritual murder. Allegations quickly spread that a well-known figure in Enugu, identified as a billionaire businessman, was behind the gruesome act. The suspect, popularly referred to by his street name “E dey play, E dey show,” is believed to have used the boy in a suspected money ritual.
According to early reports, the incident occurred under suspicious circumstances, with Chimaobi reportedly going missing before his body was later discovered in a mutilated state. Eyewitness accounts and social media posts from residents and community members pointed to the involvement of the high-profile suspect, prompting widespread condemnation and calls for justice.
The case has since been under police investigation, although official statements from the authorities have remained limited. The Enugu State Police Command has not yet confirmed whether formal charges have been filed against the suspect, nor has it released full details of the investigation. Nonetheless, the incident has fueled public outrage, especially given the wealth and social influence of the accused.
Chimaobi’s family has continued to mourn the tragic loss of their son. Loved ones describe him as a bright and kind-hearted child whose life was cut short in a brutal and senseless manner. The decision to bury him at his father’s residence is seen as both a traditional and emotional farewell, as the family prepares to say their final goodbyes.
Community members have vowed not to let the case fade into silence. Several advocacy groups and human rights organizations have urged authorities to act decisively and transparently in handling the investigation. They argue that the prevalence of ritual killings in Nigeria has continued in part due to the failure to hold powerful individuals accountable.
The burial ceremony on June 28 is expected to draw attendees from the local community, civil society, and the media. Many residents have expressed their intention to attend as a form of solidarity and to pay respects to the victim. Some have also planned to wear black in mourning, as a visual protest against the rising tide of ritual-related crimes across the country.
In recent years, Nigeria has seen an increase in reports of ritual killings, with many cases involving children and vulnerable individuals. Such crimes are often linked to beliefs that human body parts can be used for wealth-enhancing rituals. Despite repeated government assurances of crackdowns, many perpetrators continue to evade justice, often due to political influence or lack of adequate evidence.
The killing of Chimaobi has added to growing concerns about impunity, especially when high-profile individuals are implicated. Social media users have continued to demand justice under the hashtag #JusticeForChimaobi, calling on the police and judiciary to ensure that the case does not go unresolved.
While the investigation remains ongoing, Chimaobi’s burial is expected to be a deeply emotional moment for his family and the wider community. It will also serve as a powerful reminder of the lives being lost to ritual killings and the urgent need for effective justice systems and community protection mechanisms in Nigeria.
As the nation watches, the hope remains that justice will be served, and that Chimaobi’s death will not be in vain.
