A man identified as Okhiria has been arrested by the Edo State Police Command for allegedly shooting his wife following an argument on June 3. The incident took place in the Ekae community, New Etete area, GRA, Benin.
According to reports, the suspect engaged in a heated argument with his wife because she delayed in preparing his meal, he later went retrieve his gun and fire at her, resulting in a bullet striking her left hand.
As a result of the incident, the victim’s hand had to be amputated.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Chidi Nwabuzor, confirmed the incident during a press conference on Sunday. He stated that the New Etete Police Division received a complaint on June 3 from some elders of the Ekae community, who reported that Joanki Okhiria, aged nine years, witnessed his father argue with his mother, Tina Okhiria.
During the altercation, Okhiria shot Tina with a double barrel gun, causing a severe injury to her left hand. The victim was promptly taken to the hospital for medical treatment, and due to the extent of the injury, her hand had to be amputated.
Nwabuzor further mentioned that the suspect has been apprehended, and the police are currently conducting an investigation. Following the completion of the investigation, the suspect will be charged in court.
The first lady of the state, Betsy Obaseki, paid the victim, Tina Okhiria, a sympathy visit at the Specialist Hospital, Benin City, Edo state, where she is currently receiving treatment.
Condoling with the victim, the first lady advised women in abusive marriages to stop suffering in silence and seek help. She also promised to assist the victim procure a prosthetic arm and ensure the culprit faces the full wrath of the law.
Mrs Obaseki said:
“Today, I visited the Specialist Hospital in Benin City to see Mrs Tina Okhiria who was allegedly shot by her husband Jason because she delayed in preparing his meal leading to the amputation of her left arm.
“I asked Mrs. Okhiria’s mother if she was aware of the husband’s abusive tendencies before the incident and advised other married couples to explore the provisions offered by the State Ministry of Social Development and Gender issues in cases of abuse, rather than suffering in silence.
“I will ensure that the husband, Mr Jason will face the full weight of the law for his actions.
“And I assure you Mrs. Okhiria that you will receive assistance in obtaining a prosthetic arm to alleviate the loss she has suffered.”