A suspect, Mr. Ibobuminaten Oweifa, has explained to the police the circumstances that allegedly led him to set one Godgift Biko on fire, claiming that the victim was caught attempting to steal his wood before the incident.
Oweifa made the disclosure while being interrogated by investigators following his arrest in connection with the incident, which has sparked concern among residents.
Niger Delta Herald Metro gathered that incident occurred in Okodi in the Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
According to the suspect, an altercation broke out after he allegedly caught Biko trying to steal pieces of wood belonging to him.
He claimed the confrontation escalated, leading to the incident in which the victim was set ablaze.
The victim, Godgift Biko, is currently receiving medical treatment at the emergency ward of Federal Medical Centre Yenagoa.
When the Niger Delta Herald visited the hospital on Thursday, medical personnel informed our correspondent that Biko was asleep and should be allowed to rest. Hospital officials did not provide details about the extent of his injuries or his current medical condition.
Police authorities confirmed that the suspect remains in custody and is assisting investigators with their inquiries. They emphasized that the suspect’s statement represents only his version of events and that investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The police also urged members of the public to refrain from taking the law into their own hands, stressing that anyone accused of theft or any other offence should be handed over to law enforcement agencies for proper investigation and prosecution.
Authorities assured that anyone found culpable at the conclusion of the investigation would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The incident has generated concern among residents, who are awaiting the outcome of the police investigation as the victim continues to receive treatment.