The Kwara State Police Command has taken three individuals into custody for their alleged involvement in a severe arson attack targeting the residence of an elderly traditional worshipper in Ilorin.
Threats Preceded the Attack
According to police reports, the incident was not spontaneous. The victim, identified as Mrs. T. A. Olorisha, had reportedly received threats in November 2025 from the suspects. The threats were allegedly motivated by religious differences, targeting her practice of traditional worship.
The police named the three arrested suspects as Alhaji Salihu Saka (63), Alhaji Abubakar Salihu (58), and Alhaji Yekini Olohuntele (67). They are accused of carrying out their threat by setting fire to her home in the Isale Koko Area of Ilorin.
Timeline of the Crime
The arson attack occurred on 1st January, 2026, at about 7:00 pm, while Mrs. Olorisha was away from the property. She subsequently reported the crime at the C Division, Oja Oba police station on 2nd January, 2026, around 10:00 pm.
Before the arrests were made, a video featuring the elderly woman went viral online. In the video, she alleged that her residence had been completely destroyed by the fire.
No lives were lost in the incident as the building was unoccupied at the time. However, the full extent of the property damage and its monetary value has not yet been determined by authorities.
Police Reaffirm Commitment to Rights and Peace
In a statement released by the command's spokesperson, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the police emphasized that there should be no interference with the constitutional right to freedom of religion and peaceful coexistence in any part of Nigeria.
The statement confirmed that all three suspects are currently in police custody and are actively aiding the ongoing investigation. The police also assured the public that efforts are being intensified to apprehend any other individuals connected to the crime.
"The Kwara State Police Command reiterates its commitment to protecting lives, property, and the fundamental rights of all residents, regardless of religious or cultural beliefs," the spokesperson stated.
The police have appealed for calm and urged members of the public to provide any useful information that could assist in bringing the investigation to a swift and just conclusion.
