A motor park worker identified as Jogodo was shot dead Monday morning in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State. Unidentified gunmen arrived in a black Lexus RX C350 and opened fire on him before fleeing the scene. The Edo State Police Command confirmed the killing, with spokesperson Eno Ikoedem stating that three suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident.
Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika has ordered the transfer of the suspects to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at the Command's headquarters. Preliminary investigations, according to Ikoedem, indicate the attack was linked to a dispute over control of the motor park. As a result, the park has been temporarily sealed off to prevent further violence.
This killing occurred less than 72 hours after another man, known only as Happy, was shot dead in Ugbihoko, a suburb of Benin City. Happy was reportedly returning home from work when attackers ambushed him near his residence. A witness said the assailants opened fire at close range as his wife was opening the gate to their home. He was taken to a hospital but died from gunshot wounds.
The motive for Jogodo's killing has not been officially determined, though police sources point to the motor park leadership conflict. No group has claimed responsibility for either attack.
Jogodo was killed over a motor park leadership dispute while police had three suspects already in custody from a similar killing days earlier. The continued violence suggests the system meant to contain such conflicts failed to act on prior warning signs. Nigerians in Etsako West and Ugbihoko remain exposed to repeat attacks despite ongoing investigations. The sealing of the park after the murder, not before, offers no protection to those already dead.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
