What began as a night of celebration at a popular Port Harcourt nightclub turned into a nightmare for two young women after they were allegedly assaulted by a well-known realtor and his security detail. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday at Blacbox Nightclub, has triggered widespread outrage and renewed concerns over women’s safety in nightlife venues across the state.
The alleged attacker, Maduba Okechi Christian, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Ceemore Group of Companies, is accused of orchestrating a violent assault against the women, identified as Thonia Okoye and Juliet Obasi. The altercation reportedly began after Maduba’s advances were rejected, leading to a brutal encounter that has left the victims both physically and emotionally traumatized.
Thonia Okoye, who had reserved a VIP table to mark her birthday, said things escalated when Maduba approached their table and became aggressive. “He tried to talk to us. When we declined and one of my friends started recording, everything went out of control,” she said. “He and his boys dragged us downstairs, stripped us naked, and started beating us like criminals.”
The attack left Juliet Obasi with a deep head wound, allegedly caused by a broken bottle wielded by Maduba himself. “He smashed a bottle on my head and attempted to stab me,” she recounted. “I was bleeding so much, I thought I would die. I traveled all the way from Owerri to celebrate my friend, and this is what I got.”
According to the victims, no help came from the club’s management or security team, who allegedly stood by as the assault unfolded. “The bouncers and staff just watched,” Juliet said. “They did nothing. It’s almost like we were set up.”
Amid the chaos, the women also claim they lost valuable items, including cash, phones, and jewelry. One of them says her handbag was snatched during the struggle.
The disturbing incident quickly went viral after the victims posted videos and images of their injuries online. Nigerians across various social media platforms have been reacting with shock, anger, and demands for swift justice.
“This is not just assault. This is attempted murder,” one X user posted.
“Women can’t even go out to celebrate without fear,” wrote another.
The Rivers State Police Command initially kept silent on the matter, but later confirmed via their official X account that the Divisional Police Officer had invited the nightclub manager and the suspect for questioning. The command also urged the victims to formally report the matter to aid investigations.
In a statement, Greatcool Ejekwu, the owner of Blacbox and known popularly as “Datfairboy”, condemned the incident, describing it as “sad and pathetic.” He claimed he had already petitioned the relevant security agencies and promised cooperation with law enforcement.
Despite this, critics have continued to question the responsibility of Blacbox management in preventing or responding to violent incidents. “How does a club allow this level of violence and do nothing?” asked a women’s rights activist in Port Harcourt. “They must be held accountable too.”
As of the time of this report, Maduba Okechi Christian has not issued a statement, and efforts to reach him for comment have been unsuccessful.
The incident has not only reignited concerns about the safety of women in public spaces, but also the impunity of wealthy and powerful individuals who believe they can act without consequence.
Women’s advocacy groups in Rivers State and across Nigeria are now rallying around Thonia and Juliet, calling for full investigations, immediate arrests, and reforms in club security protocols.
As the story continues to unfold, one message is becoming louder both online and offline:
Justice must be served.
