Gunmen have killed an 85-year-old secretary and leader of the Iyowa community in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State.

The deceased, identified as Reuben Owie, was reportedly shot dead by two unidentified armed men at his residence in Iguosa, near Okhunhun, Benin City.

The incident occurred at about 8:15pm on Sunday, August 2, 2026.

The Edo State Police Command confirmed the incident on Saturday.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said in a statement that the case was reported by the deceased’s son, Osayomwanbo Owie.

“The police received a report from Osayomwanbo Owie, the deceased’s son, following the attack at the victim’s residence at No. 2 Abu Street, Iguosa, off Okhunhun Road, Benin City.

“On Aug. 2, 2026, at about 2015hrs, one Osayomwanbo Owie reported that his father, Hon. Reuben Owie, 85 years old, Secretary of Iyowa Community, was attacked by two unidentified gunmen at his residence.

“One of the assailants reportedly shot the victim in the head, resulting in his death,” she said.

Ikoedem said police officers visited the scene, documented the incident and recovered the body.

She added that the deceased’s body had been deposited at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital.

The police spokesperson said investigation into the incident was ongoing, while efforts had been intensified to identify and arrest the suspects.

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