The Kogi State Police Command has arrested a man, Jacob Irewa, over allegations that he set his wife, Berida Irawo, on fire following a domestic dispute in Lokoja, the state capital.
According to The Guardian, the incident occurred on Friday, August 14, 2026, at about 8:30 p.m. in Oworo Estate, Felele, after an argument between the couple reportedly escalated.
In a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, police said officers attached to the B Division Surveillance Team responded swiftly after receiving a report of the incident and arrested the suspect at the scene.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the disagreement allegedly began after the victim burnt some of the suspect’s clothes, believing he no longer used them, without first obtaining his permission.
Police alleged that the argument escalated, following which the suspect threatened his wife, allegedly obtained petrol from his motorcycle and set her ablaze.
According to The Guardian, the victim survived the incident and is currently receiving treatment at Honey Gold Hospital in Felele.
The police further stated that the suspect allegedly admitted during interrogation to setting his wife on fire.
The Commissioner of Police, Naziru Bello Kankarofi, condemned the alleged attack and reiterated the Command’s commitment to tackling domestic violence and other violent crimes.
He urged members of the public to resolve family disputes through lawful and peaceful means rather than resorting to violence.
Police confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that the suspect will be charged to court upon completion of the investigation.
The allegations against Jacob Irewa have not been determined by a court of law. He remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in accordance with Nigerian law.
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