Police arrest man for allegedly setting wife ablaze

The Kogi State Police Command has apprehended a man named Jacob Irewa for allegedly attempting to set his wife, Berida Irawo, on fire during a domestic dispute in Lokoja. A police public relations officer, ASP Saliu Afusat, announced this in a statement on Sunday. The alleged incident took place on Friday around 8:30 pm at Oworo Estate, Felele, Lokoja.

Surveillance officers from the B Division in Felele were promptly informed of the situation and swiftly arrived at the scene, leading to the arrest of the suspect. Initial investigations indicated that the argument began when the victim allegedly burned some of her husband's clothes without his consent, believing he no longer needed them.

Police claim that the suspect grew enraged, threatened his wife, acquired petrol from his motorcycle, and set her ablaze. Despite sustaining severe burns, the victim is currently receiving medical attention at Honey Gold Hospital in Felele, Lokoja. The suspect reportedly confessed to setting his wife on fire during an initial police examination.

Kogi State's Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, strongly condemned the act, reaffirming the command's zero tolerance for any form of violence, particularly domestic violence. He urged the public to resolve domestic disputes through lawful means and to refrain from actions that could endanger lives. The police have launched a thorough investigation to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the incident and gather additional evidence.

The suspect is expected to be formally charged in court following the conclusion of the investigation.