Gunmen Kill 85-Year-Old Community Leader in Edo

Hon. Reuben Owie, an 85-year-old community leader and Secretary of Iyowa Community, was murdered by two unidentified gunmen who invaded his home in Iguosa, near Okhunhun, Benin City, Edo State, at approximately 8:15 p.m. on Sunday, August 2, 2026. The Edo State Police Command confirmed the killing on Saturday, stating that detectives have initiated an investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding the attack and apprehend the assailants.

The police were alerted by Owie's son, Osayomwanbo Owie. Preliminary reports indicate that the attackers gained access to the residence and shot the elderly leader in the head, leading to his death.

Police personnel visited the scene, documented evidence, and recovered the body, which was later taken to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). The police spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, assured that efforts are being intensified to identify the suspects and urged the public to provide any useful information to assist in the investigation.