Police in Kogi State have arrested 33-year-old Jacob Irewa for allegedly setting his wife on fire during a domestic dispute. The incident occurred on Friday, August 14, at Oworo Estate in Felele, Lokoja, according to the Kogi State Police Command. The victim, Mrs. Berida Irawo, suffered burn injuries and is currently receiving treatment at Honey Gold Hospital in Felele.
Arrest and Immediate Response
Police officers attached to the B Division Surveillance Team apprehended Irewa following a distress call regarding the violent altercation. Police spokesperson ASP Afusat Saliu confirmed the arrest and stated that the suspect was taken into custody immediately at the scene.
According to Saliu, preliminary investigations revealed that the argument began after Mrs. Irawo allegedly burnt some of her husband's clothes without his consent. The situation escalated when the suspect allegedly threatened his wife, siphoned petrol from his motorcycle, and proceeded to set her on fire.
Confession and Charges
In his statement to the police, Irewa admitted to setting his wife ablaze, Saliu said. Detectives have commenced a full investigation to establish every detail surrounding the attack and gather more evidence before the case proceeds to court.
The suspect is expected to be charged with attempted culpable homicide once investigations are concluded, police said.
Police Condemnation and Public Appeal
Commissioner of Police in Kogi State, CP Naziru Kankarofi, condemned the act, describing it as "barbaric and unacceptable." He reminded residents that the command has zero tolerance for domestic violence and urged couples and families to settle disagreements through legal and peaceful means.
"The command will not condone any action capable of endangering lives. We encourage citizens to seek peaceful and legal means of settling disagreements," Kankarofi stated.
Medical staff at Honey Gold Hospital in Felele provided emergency care to Mrs. Irawo after she sustained serious burn injuries during the attack. Domestic violence remains a serious issue across Nigeria, with rights groups repeatedly urging victims and neighbours to report abuse early before it escalates into life-threatening attacks.
