Security
Man arrested for setting wife on fire in Kogi
A domestic dispute in Lokoja turned life-threatening when a man allegedly doused his wife with petrol and set her ablaze following an argument over burnt clothing.
Tragic Incident at Oworo Estate
A domestic disagreement over burnt clothes has left a Lokoja woman, Berida Irawo, battling for her life after her husband, Jacob Irewa, allegedly doused her with petrol and set her ablaze. The incident occurred on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Oworo Estate, Felele, Lokoja, Kogi State, bringing the dangers of domestic disputes into sharp focus.
Following the attack, Irewa was arrested by the Kogi State Police Command for alleged attempted culpable homicide. The command’s spokesperson, ASP Salisu Afusat, disclosed that the suspect was apprehended shortly after the matter was reported to the authorities.
On Friday, 14th August 2026, at about 2030 hours, the B Division Surveillance Team, Felele, received a report of the incident and immediately mobilised to the scene, where the suspect was arrested.
— ASP Salisu Afusat, Spokesperson, Kogi State Police Command
Escalation of Domestic Dispute
Preliminary investigations by the police indicated that the violence began with what appeared to be an ordinary domestic disagreement. The victim had reportedly burnt some of her husband’s clothes which she believed he was no longer using; however, the action was allegedly carried out without his permission.
What followed was a confrontation that escalated into a terrifying act of violence. According to police reports, the suspect allegedly threatened his wife before fetching fuel to carry out the attack. This transformation of a household argument into a life-threatening assault resulted in Irawo sustaining serious injuries requiring urgent medical intervention.
The incident followed a domestic disagreement after the victim burnt some of the suspect’s clothes which she believed he was no longer using, without his permission. The suspect subsequently threatened her, fetched petrol from his motorcycle and proceeded to set her ablaze.
— ASP Salisu Afusat, Spokesperson, Kogi State Police Command
Medical Status and Legal Proceedings
Berida Irawo survived the initial attack and is currently receiving treatment at Honey Gold Hospital, Felele. While she fights for her recovery, the police have continued their interrogation of the suspect. The Kogi State Police Command confirmed that Irewa has admitted to the crime during his statement to investigators.
The suspect, in his statement to the Police, admitted to setting his wife ablaze.
— ASP Salisu Afusat, Spokesperson, Kogi State Police Command
The Command has commenced a comprehensive investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and gather further evidence. This case serves as a grim reminder of the devastating consequences that can arise when domestic conflicts escalate into physical violence, highlighting the need for early intervention in volatile domestic situations.
Author's comment: A shocking reminder of how quickly domestic arguments can turn deadly. Material loss can never justify physical harm. Society must do more to address the root causes of extreme domestic violence.