Gunmen have killed an 85-year-old community leader, Reuben Owie, at his residence in Iguosa, near Okhunhun, Benin City, Edo State. The attack occurred on Sunday, 2 August 2026, at about 8:15 p.m., according to the Edo State Police Command.
Police Confirm Fatal Shooting
Eno Ikoedem, the police command's spokeswoman, confirmed the incident to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Benin. Ms Ikoedem, an assistant superintendent of police, stated that the police received a report from Osayomwanbo Owie, the deceased's son, following the attack at the victim's residence at No. 2 Abu Street, Iguosa, off Okhunhun Road, Benin City.
According to the police report, on 2 August 2026, at about 2015hrs, Osayomwanbo Owie reported that his father, Hon. Reuben Owie, 85 years old, and secretary of Iyowa community, was attacked by two unidentified gunmen at his residence. One of the assailants reportedly shot the victim in the head, resulting in his death, Ms Ikoedem said in a statement.
Investigation Underway
The police spokeswoman said officers visited the scene, documented the incident, and recovered the remains of the slain man. The body of the deceased was subsequently conveyed to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital.
Ms Ikoedem said investigation into the incident is ongoing, while efforts were being intensified to identify and arrest the suspects. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the Okhunhun axis is between the University of Benin and Oluku, on the outskirts of Benin.
