The Kogi State Police Command has arrested a man, identified as Jacob Irewa, for allegedly setting his wife, Berida Irawo, on fire during a domestic dispute in Lokoja.
The incident occurred on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Oworo Estate, Felele, Lokoja, according to the state police command.
The command’s spokesperson, SP Salisu Afusat, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, saying the B Division Surveillance Team in Felele received a report of the incident at about 8:30pm and immediately moved to the scene, where the suspect was apprehended.
Afusat said preliminary investigation indicated that the incident followed a disagreement between the couple after the victim allegedly burnt some of her husband’s clothes which she believed he no longer used.
She said the action reportedly angered the suspect, who allegedly threatened his wife before fetching petrol from his motorcycle and setting her on fire.
The victim survived the attack and is currently receiving medical treatment at Honey Gold Hospital, Felele.
The police spokesperson added that the suspect allegedly confessed during questioning to setting his wife ablaze.
She said the command had commenced a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and gather additional evidence.
Reacting to the development, the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, condemned the alleged attack and reaffirmed the command’s zero tolerance for violence, particularly domestic violence.
The police commissioner urged members of the public to resolve domestic disagreements through lawful means and refrain from actions capable of putting lives at risk.
He added that the suspect would be arraigned after the conclusion of the investigation.
The command assured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property and ensuring that suspects involved in violent crimes face the law.