By USMAN ALIYU

The Police Command in Edo State says it has arrested a 42-year-old mini-bus driver, Osabuohen Igerevba, for allegedly killing his 32-year-old lover, Joy Jerome, in Benin.

ASP Eno Ikoedem, the Command’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), disclosed this to newsmen in Benin on Tuesday.

Ikoedem said the incident was reported on January 10 by the Ohen (Community Chief Priest) of Ikpe community, who alerted the police to the discovery of a lifeless female body by the roadside near a river.

“Operatives of the Idogbo Division immediately responded to the report.

“The body was moved to the hospital where she was confirmed dead and subsequently deposited at the Stella Obasanjo Mortuary,” Ikoedem said.

According to the police spokesperson, investigations identified the deceased as Joy Jerome, a resident of Upper Sakponba Road, Benin City, and the investigation led to the arrest of Igerevba, who also resides in the same area.

“Further investigation revealed that the suspect and the deceased were in a romantic relationship,” Ikoedem said, adding that events leading to her death occurred on Jan. 9.

She explained that the suspect allegedly picked up the victim that night, and an argument broke out while they were on their way to his residence.

“He accused her of cheating on him and complained that he had not been able to reach her for about two days.

“During the argument, he parked the vehicle along the road. In the heat of the moment, he assaulted her,” the PRO said.

Ikoedem said the woman became unresponsive and was rushed to a hospital, where she was confirmed dead on arrival.

“Out of panic, the suspect later drove to a community close to the river and dumped the body, where it was discovered the following day,” she said.

The police spokesperson confirmed that the suspect was in custody and had confessed to the crime, while investigations continued.

Using the incident to caution the public, Ikoedem urged young women, in particular, to be vigilant in their relationships.

“We advise members of the public, particularly young women, to be very cautious in their relationships.

“Avoid abusive relationships and avoid quarrels in lonely places or with hot-tempered partners,” she said.

She also encouraged the prompt reporting of domestic violence and conflicts to the nearest police station, while calling on parents and guardians to guide young people on peaceful conflict resolution.

“Domestic violence should never be ignored. Early reporting can save lives,” Ikoedem said. (NAN)