By Boluwaji Obahopo

The Kogi State Police Command has arrested a man, identified as Jacob Irewa, for allegedly setting his wife, Berida Irawo, ablaze following a domestic disagreement at Oworo Estate, Felele, Lokoja.

The incident reportedly occurred on Friday, August 14, 2026, at about 8:30 p.m.

The command’s Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Saliu Afusat, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, saying operatives of the B Division Surveillance Team, Felele, were alerted to the incident and immediately mobilised to the scene, where the suspect was arrested.

According to the statement, preliminary investigation showed that the incident followed a disagreement between the couple after the victim allegedly burnt some of the suspect’s clothes which she believed he no longer used, without his consent.

The police alleged that the suspect subsequently threatened his wife, fetched petrol from his motorcycle and set her ablaze.

The victim survived the attack and is receiving treatment at Honey Gold Hospital, Felele, Lokoja.

The police said the suspect admitted during preliminary investigation that he set his wife ablaze.

“The Command has commenced a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and gather further evidence,” the statement said.

The Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Command, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, condemned the incident and reiterated the command’s zero tolerance for violence, particularly domestic violence.

Kankarofi urged members of the public to seek lawful means of resolving domestic disputes and avoid actions capable of endangering lives.

The command said the suspect would be charged to court upon completion of the investigation.

It also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and ensuring that persons responsible for violent crimes were brought to justice.