The Edo State Police Command has arrested a member of the Odu’a Peoples Congress (OPC), Christian Okagbare, for his alleged involvement in the attempted murder of two individuals in the Iyanomo community of Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area.
The incident reportedly took place in Iyanomo, a community known for its close-knit population and agricultural activities. The two victims, Osaigbovo Charles and Iyare Stanley, were at the heart of the attack. According to police reports, the victims sustained serious injuries after being shot by OPC members from the same community.
The victims, both residents of Iyanomo, were said to have gone about their normal activities when they were suddenly attacked. The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Nemi Edwin-Iwo, explained that the victims reported the matter to the police, stating that OPC members fired shots at them without any prior argument or provocation.
The two men were left with multiple injuries all over their bodies and were immediately rushed to the hospital for emergency medical attention. Fortunately, they were treated and later discharged, though they are still recovering from the physical and emotional trauma of the attack.
Following the report made by the victims, the Edo State Police Command launched an immediate investigation. The Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the police force took up the case and began looking into the details of the attack. Their thorough investigation soon led to the arrest of Christian Okagbare, a 31-year-old OPC member, who was identified as a key suspect in the attempted murder case.
According to Commissioner Edwin-Iwo, during the interrogation, Christian Okagbare confessed to committing the crime. In a further twist, he led police operatives to the exact location where he had buried the firearm used in the attack. The police recovered the weapon as evidence in the case.
The Odu’a Peoples Congress (OPC) is a Yoruba socio-cultural group that has gained prominence in Nigeria, particularly in the southwest. The organization was initially formed to promote and protect the rights of the Yoruba people but has faced criticism for its involvement in vigilante activities and clashes with other groups.
In this particular case, the attack appears to have been unprovoked, raising concerns about the involvement of OPC members in violent crimes within their own communities. The arrest of Christian Okagbare underscores the need for proper regulation and monitoring of groups like OPC, to ensure they do not become a threat to the peace and safety of residents.
While Christian Okagbare’s arrest is a major breakthrough in the case, the police are continuing their investigation. There are concerns that other members of the group may have been involved, and the police are determined to bring all those responsible to justice. Commissioner Edwin-Iwo emphasized the commitment of the Edo State Police Command to ensuring that peace is maintained in all parts of the state.
The victims, Osaigbovo Charles and Iyare Stanley, are recovering from their injuries, but the emotional toll of the attack is still weighing heavily on them and their families. The community remains on edge, with residents calling for increased security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
This case is a reminder of the importance of maintaining law and order, especially in local communities where trust and unity should be the priority. The Edo State Police Command’s quick response and arrest of the suspect reflect their dedication to protecting the public and ensuring that justice is served. The ongoing investigation will reveal more details, but for now, the residents of Iyanomo can breathe a little easier, knowing that the police are actively working to keep their community safe.
