Kabba, Kogi State – Tragedy struck on Wednesday night as a commercial motorcycle rider, Adewale Jethro, was brutally hacked to death by a suspected armed robber who later escaped with his motorcycle along Best Way Road in Kabba.
According to information gathered by The Bureau Newspaper, the incident occurred when the middle-aged rider picked up a passenger who promised to pay an unusually high fare for a distant trip. The agreement turned fatal when the suspect lured him into a remote area, attacked him with a machete, and made away with the bike.
A statement released on Thursday by Emmanuel Olorunmaiye, spokesperson for the Owe Titun Development Association, confirmed that the gruesome attack resulted in the death of Mr. Jethro. The group revealed that the murder weapon was abandoned at the crime scene, while Jethro’s motorcycle was carted away by the assailant.
Describing the act as a “barbaric violation of human dignity and a direct threat to the peace of the community,” the association condemned the killing and called for urgent intervention by security agencies, traditional institutions, and local authorities.
“We strongly condemn this wicked and cowardly act. We can no longer remain silent while evil men steal lives and peace from our midst,” the statement read.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Adewale Jethro. May God grant them strength and comfort during this painful time.”
Confirming the incident, the Kogi State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, William Aya, told The Bureau Newspaper that the attack took place around 9:00 p.m. and was reported by the Divisional Police Officer in the area.
“The Okada man accepted a passenger who offered to pay more for a long-distance ride. Upon reaching an isolated area, the suspect attacked him with a machete and fled with the motorcycle,” Aya said.
He further explained that the victim was rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries before help could arrive. The body has since been deposited in the mortuary.
Aya assured that a thorough investigation has commenced and that efforts are being made to apprehend the suspect. He also warned commercial riders to be cautious of passengers offering unusually high payments for trips to remote locations.
