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Gunmen have killed an 85-year-old community leader, Reuben Owie, in Iguosa, near Okhunhun in Benin City, Edo State. Owie, who served as the secretary and a prominent leader of the Iyowa community in Ovia North-East Local Government Area, was reportedly attacked at his residence by two unidentified armed men. The incident occurred at about 8:15pm on Sunday, August 2, with the victim’s son subsequently reporting the killing to the police.
The Edo State Police Command confirmed the incident and said preliminary investigations had commenced to establish the circumstances surrounding the elderly man’s killing. The identities and motives of the attackers had not been established as of the time of reporting, while detectives were working to gather information that could lead to their identification and arrest. The killing has reportedly caused concern among residents, particularly given the age and community standing of the deceased.
The incident adds to growing concerns over violent attacks and insecurity in parts of Edo State, where authorities have continued to intensify operations against criminal groups. In a separate operation this month, Nigerian Army troops working with the police rescued an abducted farmer and killed a suspected kidnapper in Ubiaja, demonstrating the continued security challenges confronting communities across the state. Security authorities are expected to investigate Owie’s killing thoroughly and work to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
