Kogi: Suspected robber kills motorcycle rider in Kabba

By Richard Elesho/Kogi

Few hours to the Sallah celebrations. Kabba, headquarters of Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, Kogi state has been thrown into mourning following the death of a middle-aged motorcycle rider, popularly called Okada, Adewale Jethro. He was hacked to death by a suspected armed robber who snatched his motorcycle.

The incident was said to have occurred occurred around 11:30 pm on Wednesday.

A statement issued on Thursday by Owe Titun Development, OTD, stated that “It is with deep sorrow and grave concern that we, the members and leadership of Owe Titún Development, react to the brutal and senseless murder of Mr. Adewale Jethro, a resident of Otu Community, which occurred last night, along Best Way towards Jehovah Witness Road, Kabba, around 8:30 PM.

“We are heartbroken by the horrifying details of this incident. His motorcycle was stolen, and the weapon used to scatter his head and skull was left at the scene. This is not just a crime it is a barbaric violation of human dignity and a threat to the peace of our community.

The statement signed by the Public Relations Officer, Emmanuel Sunday Olorunmaiye reads;

“We strongly condemn this wicked and cowardly act, and we are calling on the security agencies, traditional rulers, elders, and all stakeholders to rise up now and take concrete steps to prevent further bloodshed in our land. We can no longer remain silent while evil men steal lives and peace from our midst.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Adewale Jethro. May God grant you strength and comfort during this painful time. As a platform committed to unity and safety, Owe Titún Development stands with you.

“Let this incident awaken us. Let it stir us to act. Let it move us towards true “Oneness of Mind” in fighting insecurity.”

The state police command confirmed the incident. The Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, SP William Aya explained that the DPO of the area reported that “at 09:00 hours, he received a report of a man who flagged down a commercial motorcycle rider and requested to be taken to an area which turned out to be a lonely area with a promise to pay higher amount than usual. The Okada man agreed probably because of the promise of a higher pay. On getting to a lovely place, the passenger macheted the bike man and vanished with the motorcycle.” Aya explained.

He said that the Okada man was rushed to the hospital for medical attention, but sadly gave up before help could get to him.

The command warned commercial motorcycle riders to always be careful of a promise of higher payment for taking passengers to lonely places.

He said that investigation has commenced while efforts were on to arrest the fleeing culprit..