Gunmen have killed an 85-year-old community leader and secretary of the Iyowa community in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, sparking alarm over rising insecurity in the region. The deceased, identified as Hon. Reuben Owie, was fatally shot at his residence in Iguosa, near Okhunhun, Benin City, on Sunday, August 2, 2026. According to reports, two unidentified armed men attacked him around 8:15 pm, with one reportedly firing a gunshot into his head, leading to his immediate death.
The incident was confirmed by the Edo State Police Command, which received the report from the victim’s son, Osayomwanbo Owie. In a statement issued on Saturday, August 8, 2026, ASP Eno Ikoedem, Public Relations Officer of the command, detailed that the attack occurred at No. 2 Abu Street, Iguosa, off Okhunhun Road, Benin City. She noted that the police responded swiftly to the scene after being alerted by the bereaved son, who reported the violent assault on his father.
Upon arrival, officers documented the crime scene and recovered the body of the octogenarian. The remains were subsequently deposited at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) for post-mortem examination and further medical procedures. The police are currently conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing, including efforts to identify and apprehend the suspects responsible for the heinous act.
Ikoedem emphasized that security operatives have intensified surveillance and intelligence gathering in the area to track down the gunmen. She also urged members of the public with any information related to the case to come forward and assist authorities in bringing the perpetrators to justice. The killing has raised concerns among residents of Iguosa and surrounding communities, who fear the escalation of violence in what was once considered a relatively peaceful neighborhood.
Hon. Reuben Owie was widely respected as both a community leader and the official secretary of Iyowa, a position that placed him at the center of local governance and traditional affairs. His death has left a void in the leadership structure of the community, prompting calls for increased security measures to protect elderly citizens and other vulnerable groups. As investigations continue, families and neighbors mourn the loss of a man who dedicated decades to serving his people.
This tragic incident underscores the growing threat of armed violence in Edo State, particularly in urban areas where such attacks were previously uncommon. Authorities are now under pressure to enhance community policing and ensure swift justice to deter future acts of brutality. The case will likely remain a focal point in discussions about security reforms and community safety in the state moving forward.
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