A man identified as Jacob Irewa has been arrested by the Kogi State Police Command for allegedly attempting to set his wife, Berida Irawo, ablaze during a domestic dispute in Lokoja. The incident occurred on Friday at about 8:30 pm at Oworo Estate, Felele, in the capital city of Kogi State. According to police, operatives from the B Division Surveillance Team in Felele responded swiftly after receiving an alert and apprehended the suspect at the scene.
The police disclosed the arrest in a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Saliu Afusat. Preliminary investigations revealed that the disagreement began when the victim reportedly burnt some of her husband’s clothes without his consent, believing he was no longer using them. This act reportedly triggered a violent reaction from Irewa, who became enraged and threatened his wife before obtaining petrol from his motorcycle to set her on fire.
Despite the horrific attack, the victim survived and is currently receiving medical treatment at Honey Gold Hospital in Felele. During questioning, the suspect admitted to setting his wife ablaze, according to police sources. The Kogi State Police Command has since launched a comprehensive investigation to gather more evidence and establish all circumstances surrounding the incident.
Commissioner of Police in Kogi State, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, strongly condemned the act and reiterated the command’s zero-tolerance policy toward violence, particularly domestic abuse. He urged the public to resolve marital and family disputes through lawful and peaceful means, warning against actions that could endanger lives. The police have assured the public that the suspect will be charged to court once the investigation is completed.
This case highlights the growing concern over domestic violence in Nigeria, where incidents of gender-based abuse continue to surface across states. The arrest serves as a reminder of the role law enforcement plays in protecting victims and ensuring perpetrators face justice. As authorities continue their probe, community leaders and women’s rights organizations are expected to respond with calls for stronger support systems for survivors of domestic abuse. The incident underscores the urgent need for awareness campaigns and legal reforms to curb such violence in Nigerian households.
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