A commercial motorcycle rider known as Adewale Jethro has been hacked to death by gunmen suspected to be armed robbers.
After killing the victim, the robbers made away with his motorcycle.
The Guardian learnt the incident occurred around 11:30 pm on Wednesday night in Kabba, Kogi West Senatorial District, Kogi State.
Confirming the incident, a statement issued on Thursday by Owe Titun Development 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, read: “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, while confirming the incident to our correspondent, said it was true.
The public relations officer, 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 place with a promise to pay a higher amount than usual. The Okada man agreed, probably because of the promise of higher pay. On getting to a lonely place, the passenger attacked the bike man with a machete and vanished with the motorcycle.”
He said that the Okada man was rushed to the hospital for medical attention but sadly died before help could arrive.
The command warned commercial motorcycle riders to always be careful of promises of higher payment for taking passengers to lonely places.
He said that the investigation has commenced, while efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing culprit.
He added that the corpse of Adewale Jethro has been deposited in the mortuary.
