London double murder suspect in court over killing of mother-of-nine and her nephew

A man is due to appear in court charged with the murder of a mother-of-nine and her 21-year-old nephew after they were shot dead in London. Obina Ezeoke, 24, is accused of killing Annie Besala Ekofo, 53, and Bervil Kalikaka-Ekofo in East Finchley on 15 September.

Ezeoke, of no fixed address, will appear at Hendon magistrates' court on Wednesday (21 September) to face the charges.

A 20-year-old man who was arrested in connection with the investigation remains on bail. Four other people, including a child, who were inside the address at Elmshurst Crescent at the time were not harmed.

Paying tribute to the 21-year-old, Kalikaka-Ekofo's family said in a statement: "He was always rapping and singing to himself, he was the life of the party everywhere he went, he knew how to light up a room with his colourful character and funny jokes.

"He was a great son, cousin, nephew, brother and friend always caring for those around him and never failed to make anyone smile or be there for them in times of need. His character and soul was beyond comparison, and it goes without a doubt that he will be truly and deeply missed by his family."

Describing Ekofo, another family statement said: "She was a wonderful and loving mother and wife, always smiling, never turned anyone away from her home, a mother to all and loved by her family and friends deeply. A glue that kept everyone together.

"A daughter, a wife, a sister, a grandma, an aunty, a cousin, a best friend, a voice that was always a comfort even in the hardest situations. A void has been left in so many lives that will never be filled."