Ephraim Onyemereneche, father of late Cadet Officer Emmanuel Chidiebere Onyemereneche, has alleged a “conspiracy of silence” following the release of an autopsy that contradicts claims that his son drowned in a swimming pool in Umuahia. Emmanuel, a cadet at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), reportedly died in April 2024, just months before his graduation.
The initial reports suggested that Emmanuel drowned at a hotel pool while swimming with friends. However, the autopsy results, released in August 2024, revealed that the cause of death was not drowning, sparking suspicions of foul play.
During a press briefing, Ephraim expressed frustration over the lack of investigation by authorities, including the Nigerian Army, police, and NDA, despite his repeated requests for answers. He specifically called out the NDA for failing to produce Valentine Obeji, a key witness and Emmanuel’s friend, for questioning.
Onyemereneche questioned why the hotel and others potentially involved in his son’s death have not been investigated. He lamented the silence from authorities despite his petitions to various agencies, including the Chief of Army Staff and Force Headquarters.
The grieving father emphasized that justice for his son is crucial, stating, “If it was someone else’s son, would they have allowed the matter to be ignored?” The autopsy, signed by a consultant pathologist, confirmed that Emmanuel did not die from drowning, further fueling suspicions of murder.
