Nigerian student killed in Norwich, UK, as Benjamin Katabana faces murder charges. University and authorities provide support to affected students

A 27-year-old Congolese national, Benjamin Katabana, has been arraigned at Norwich Crown Court over the fatal stabbing of a Nigerian, identified as Ucheena Okirie, a former postgraduate student at the University of East Anglia.

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Katabana appeared via videolink from Norwich Prison on Tuesday, wearing a greenish top, and is charged with murder.

He is due to appear at Norwich Magistrates’ Court and a potential trial date has been provisionally set for 18 May, expected to last five to seven days under Judge Alice Robinson. During the brief hearing, Katabana spoke only to confirm his personal details.

According to police reports, officers were called to Somerleyton House, a residential complex for students and professionals on Unthank Road, at about 5:22am on 22 November after receiving reports of a man with a suspected stab wound.

Okirie, believed to be in his 30s, died from a single stab wound to the chest. The incident prompted a murder investigation and forensic teams cordoned off the area, temporarily evacuating residents.

Speaking earlier at Norwich Magistrates’ Court, Katabana’s father, Fabrice, said the family arrived in the UK in 2010 through the Gateway Protection Programme after fleeing conflict in the Goma region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

“Benjamin was 10 years old when we resettled. Goma has endured prolonged conflict, including violence involving the M23 rebel group,” he said.

A spokesperson for the University of East Anglia confirmed that a small number of current students were residing at Somerleyton House and that the institution has reached out to ensure they receive support.

“We remain committed to supporting all affected students during this difficult time,” the spokesperson added.

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Okirie’s death comes amid other recent tragedies involving Nigerians abroad, including fatalities in both the United States and the United Kingdom, highlighting ongoing concerns for the diaspora community.