Gunmen Kill 85-Year-Old Community Leader in Benin City

Gunmen have killed an 85-year-old community leader, Reuben Owie, at his residence in Iguosa, near Okhunhun, Benin City, Edo State. Mr. Owie, who served as the secretary of the Iyowa Community, was attacked around 8:15 p.m. on Sunday, August 2, 2026.

According to the Edo State police command, two unidentified gunmen were responsible for the fatal assault. Eno Ikoedem, the police command's spokeswoman, confirmed the incident, stating that one of the assailants shot the victim in the head, leading to his death. The report was filed by Osayomwanbo Owie, the deceased's son, who alerted authorities after the attack at their home on Abu Street.

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On 2 August 2026, at about 2015hrs, one Osayomwanbo Owie reported that his father, Hon. Reuben Owie, 85 years old, and secretary of Iyowa community, was attacked by two unidentified gunmen at his residence.

Police officers visited the scene, documented the crime, and recovered Mr. Owie's body. The remains were subsequently transported to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital. An investigation into the murder is currently underway, with intensified efforts to identify and arrest the perpetrators. The Okhunhun area, where the incident occurred, is situated between the University of Benin and Oluku on the outskirts of Benin City.

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One of the assailants reportedly shot the victim in the head, resulting in his death.