Kogi Police Arrest Man for Setting Wife Ablaze in Lokoja

The Kogi State Police Command has arrested a man, identified as Jacob Irewa, for allegedly setting his wife ablaze following a domestic dispute in the Felele area of Lokoja, the state capital.

The incident occurred on Friday, August 14, 2026, at the couple’s residence in Oworo Estate, Felele, Lokoja Local Government Area.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Salisu Oyiza Afusat, the B Division Surveillance Team, Felele, received a report of the incident at about 8:30 p.m. and immediately mobilised to the scene, where the suspect was arrested.

The police said preliminary investigation revealed that the incident followed a domestic disagreement after the victim allegedly burnt some of the suspect’s clothes which she believed he was no longer using, without his permission.

The suspect threatened his wife before fetching petrol from his motorcycle and setting her on fire.

The victim survived the incident and is currently receiving medical treatment at Honey Gold Hospital in Felele.

The police spokesperson said the suspect admitted during questioning that he set his wife ablaze, adding that the command had commenced a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and gather further evidence.

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

He urged members of the public to seek lawful means of resolving domestic disputes and avoid actions that could endanger lives.

The police said the suspect would be charged to court for prosecution after the conclusion of investigations.

The command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and ensuring that persons responsible for violent crimes are brought to justice.