Felicia, a 500-level student, has presented her version of the events surrounding an incident in which she allegedly poured hot water on a woman named Rose.
According to Felicia, the house involved is her property. She stated that approximately two years ago, Rose, who was reportedly stranded and in need of accommodation, approached her, introducing herself as a cousin and requesting to stay. Felicia said she agreed to accommodate Rose and initially did not require any contribution towards the rent.
As the tenancy period neared its end, the two discussed their living arrangements. Felicia explained that, being in her final year with only a few months left in her programme, they reached an understanding that she would remain in the house with Rose until the end of the semester. Following this, Rose renewed the rent with the understanding that Felicia would continue to reside there for the agreed duration.
Felicia further stated that after a school strike, she noticed a change in Rose’s attitude. When she sought clarification, Rose told her she was no longer comfortable with her presence and asked her to vacate. Felicia said she reminded Rose of their previous agreement, but Rose later issued a specific deadline for her to leave.
On the Friday of the incident, Felicia packed her belongings because she had a 9:00 a.m. appointment at school. She intended to take her bath before departing so she would not have to return afterwards. She used a neighbour’s gas cooker to heat water for her bath, during which Rose confronted her.
Felicia said the confrontation became heated and emotional, causing her to lose her temper. She admitted pouring the hot water on Rose before leaving the scene. However, she denied intentionally adding pepper to the water or deliberately boiling it with the intention of attacking Rose. She maintained that the incident occurred in the heat of an emotional confrontation and was not premeditated.
This account was obtained during a visit by the National Association of Idoma Students, the National Association of Ogbadibo Students and other student bodies to the hospital where Rose is receiving treatment and the police station where Felicia is currently in custody.
