Bomb Disguised as Valentine Gift Kills Nigerian Man

On February 14, 1993, a tragic incident unfolded in Nnewi, southeastern Nigeria, when 35-year-old car mechanic Dolu Ubajekw was killed after opening a bomb disguised as a Valentine gift. The event occurred around 10 PM at a popular relaxation spot, where a small parcel labeled as a gift was delivered to Ubajekw.

He enlisted the help of 23-year-old Cyril Okek, a nearby restaurant worker, to open the package, which detonated instantly. The explosion severely injured Okek, causing extensive damage to his lower body, while Ubajekw was believed to be the intended target.

Following the incident, police investigations led to the arrest of an unnamed hotel worker suspected of involvement in a bitter love rivalry linked to Ubajekw's partner, described as a fair-complexioned girl from Nnewichi. The violent crime, which shocked residents across Anambra State, highlighted the spike in violent incidents during festive periods.

The method of the bombing was reportedly compared to the 1986 assassination of journalist Dele Giwa.