Benue State Lawyer Assassinated, Police Launch Investigations and Intensify Anti-Crime Operations
The Benue State legal community and residents of Otukpo were thrown into mourning on Wednesday night as assassins killed Otukpo-based lawyer Mike Ofikwu at his residence on Otukpa Street, Otukpo, Benue State.
A close source disclosed that two armed men ambushed the lawyer while he waited for his gate to be opened.
“Two armed men had laid an ambush for him. As he was waiting for his people to open the gate, the assailants emerged from hiding and shot him at close range,” the source recounted.
Despite efforts to save him, Ofikwu was pronounced dead upon arrival at a nearby hospital.
Police Confirmation and Investigation
Catherine Anene, the spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, confirmed the incident and assured the public that the police are working diligently to apprehend the culprits.
“This incident is confirmed, and investigations are ongoing. I commiserate with his family and friends, and assure them that justice will be served,” Anene stated.
Lawyer: Anti-Crime Operations Across Benue State
In a related development, the Benue State Police Command has intensified its efforts to combat criminal activities, including robbery and cultism, arresting 34 suspects in separate operations across the state.
Crackdown on Cultism in Makurdi
The police launched an operation in response to the killing of a young man in the North Bank area of Makurdi, reportedly due to a rival cult clash. Eighteen suspects were arrested at Avis Hotel, where illicit drugs were also recovered.
Lawyer: Expanded Operations and Arrests
Further raids were conducted in hideouts of suspected cultists by specialized units, including the Cybercrimes Unit, Eagle Eyes Squad, and the Anti-Cult Department. Fourteen additional suspects were apprehended during these operations.
Items recovered from the suspects include:
- Two locally fabricated pistols
- Three live cartridges
- One single-barrel gun
- Six mobile phones from various brands
- Three ATM cards
- One Laptop
- One shisha pot
- Leaves suspected to be marijuana
- ₦23,670 in cash
Commissioner of Police’s Statement
The Benue State Commissioner of Police, Steve Yabanet, lauded the success of the operations, describing them as a testament to the command’s commitment to eradicating crime. He emphasized that the command would sustain its momentum to ensure the safety of residents.
“The Benue State Police Command remains resolute in its mission to rid the state of crime and criminal elements. We urge the public to cooperate by providing timely and vital information to help prevent crimes before they occur,” Yabanet said.
Justice and Security Assurance
The police assured residents of Benue State that suspects arrested in connection with various offences would soon be charged in court. The Command reiterated its dedication to justice for the slain lawyer, Mike Ofikwu, and the broader mission of ensuring peace and safety in the state.
