CPI Condemns Alleged Wife Burning in Lokoja, Demands Justice, Survivor Protection
A non-governmental organisation, Challenged Parenthood Initiative (CPI), has condemned the alleged setting of a woman, Berida Irawo, ablaze by her husband, Jacob Irewa, following a domestic dispute in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Eunice Abimbola Agbogun, on Tuesday, CPI called for the protection of the survivor and urged relevant authorities to ensure that justice is served in accordance with the law.
The organisation said it was deeply concerned by the alleged incident at Oworo Estate, Felele, Lokoja, describing it as a serious violation of human dignity and a disturbing case of domestic and gender-based violence.
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According to CPI, the Kogi State Police Command reported that the incident occurred on Friday, August 14, 2026, following a domestic disagreement. The police subsequently arrested Irewa in connection with the alleged attempted culpable homicide involving his wife.
The organisation said the police had also stated that the suspect admitted in his statement to setting his wife ablaze, while the survivor reportedly survived the attack and is receiving medical treatment in Felele.
CPI welcomed the prompt intervention of the Kogi State Police Command, particularly the arrest of the suspect and the commencement of an investigation.
The group also noted the police command’s position that the suspect would be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigation.
CPI stressed that no domestic disagreement, regardless of its cause, could justify violence or any act capable of causing serious injury or death.
“Disagreements within families must be addressed through lawful and peaceful means. No person should be subjected to violence in the home, regardless of gender, social position, occupation or religious affiliation,” the organisation said.
It expressed particular concern over the severity of the alleged attack and the serious injuries sustained by the survivor, stressing that the suspect’s reported status as a religious leader did not place him above the law.
“Accountability must be based on the evidence and applicable law,” CPI said.
The organisation, which has advocated for the passage and implementation of the Kogi State Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law, said the state’s legal framework should be applied appropriately in cases of domestic and gender-based violence.
It noted that the law provides protection against various forms of violence, including spousal battery and attacks involving harmful substances.
CPI called on the Kogi State Police Command to conclude its investigation promptly and professionally, preserve all relevant evidence and proceed with prosecution where the evidence establishes the appropriate criminal charges.
It also urged the police to conduct the investigation in accordance with due process and without interference.
The organisation further appealed to the Kogi State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, the Ministry of Health and other relevant protection and justice institutions to ensure that the survivor receives adequate medical treatment, psychosocial support and legal assistance.
It stressed that the survivor should be protected from intimidation, retaliation, coercion or any attempt to pressure her into withdrawing or compromising the case.
CPI also urged relevant authorities to ensure that the case proceeds through the appropriate judicial process, adding that any decision concerning bail or other judicial measures should be determined by competent authorities in accordance with the law, while taking into consideration the safety and protection needs of the survivor.
The organisation called on religious institutions, faith-based organisations and community leaders across Kogi State to strengthen public education on domestic violence, conflict resolution and responsible conduct.
“Religious status must never be used to shield perpetrators of violence or discourage survivors from seeking help and justice,” CPI said.
It also urged members of the public who witness or experience domestic violence to report such incidents promptly to the appropriate authorities rather than resorting to retaliation or informal settlements that could place survivors at further risk.
CPI said it would continue to monitor the progress of the case within the limits appropriate for an ongoing criminal investigation and advocate for the protection of the survivor and the lawful administration of justice.
“Domestic violence is a serious violation of human dignity. Marriage, family relationships, religious office or social standing cannot provide justification or immunity for violence,” the organisation said.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER 20TH AUGUST, 2026)
