Man Known as ‘Dogo’ Killed in Benin as Edo Govt Orders Full Investigation
A man identified as Courage, popularly known as “Dogo,” has reportedly been killed at Eboh Quarters, Estate Gate, Irhirhi, in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State, triggering intensified security operations across parts of Benin City.
The incident was confirmed by the Secretary of the Edo State Special Security Squad, John Izegaegbe, in a statement issued through the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Patrick Ebojele. Authorities say a full investigation is underway to unravel the circumstances surrounding the killing.
Distress Call and Early Investigation
According to officials, the special squad received a distress call at about 6:13 a.m. on Friday reporting a killing in the Irhirhi community. Upon arrival at the scene, operatives confirmed that the victim had already been killed.
John Izegaegbe clarified that contrary to early speculation, the incident was not cult-related. Preliminary findings suggest it stemmed from a dispute linked to park ticketing activities.
He explained that although the Edo State Government had banned certain ticketing operations, the deceased was allegedly involved in illegal ticketing and was accused of failing to properly share proceeds. The disagreement reportedly escalated into a conspiracy that led to his death.
Investigators recovered spent cartridges at the scene and disclosed that a 9mm Beretta pistol was allegedly used in the attack.
Reprisal Attack and Heightened Tension
The killing reportedly sparked a reprisal attack at Wire Road after some individuals allegedly acted on mistaken assumptions regarding those responsible.
Security analysts note that retaliatory violence often complicates investigations and can quickly destabilise affected communities, particularly where disputes are tied to informal revenue collection networks.
Authorities confirmed that several suspects have been arrested and are providing information that may lead to further arrests.
Weapons Recovered During Operations
Following the governor’s directive, the Special Security Squad launched intensive operations across Benin metropolis over the weekend.
During the exercise, firearms were reportedly discovered in an abandoned vehicle in Irhirhi, off Airport Road. Security operatives recovered a K2 Army magazine loaded with live ammunition, though the occupants of the vehicle fled before they could be apprehended.
Officials described the recovery as significant, noting that the circulation of illegal arms remains a major driver of violent crime in the state.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Security
State authorities reaffirmed their stance against cultism, kidnapping, and other criminal activities. The Special Security Squad assured residents that the situation is under control and urged the public to provide timely and credible information to assist ongoing investigations.
John Izegaegbe stated that the governor had issued a firm directive to get to the root of the matter and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
Separate Kidnap Case Under Investigation
In a related development, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, assured residents that efforts are ongoing to rescue a police officer and his daughter who were abducted on February 8.
He also confirmed that two other victims kidnapped in Makeke, Akoko Edo Local Government Area, on the same day are the subject of ongoing rescue efforts. Operational details were withheld for security reasons.
The killing of Courage, known as Dogo, has once again highlighted the risks associated with illegal revenue activities and unresolved disputes within communities.
While authorities maintain that the incident is not cult-related, the recovery of firearms and ammunition underscores the broader security challenges facing parts of Edo State.
As investigations continue, residents have been urged to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies, while the government insists that decisive action will be taken against anyone found culpable.
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