A post-primary school teacher, identified as Mr. Simon Iorkase, has been shot dead in Abaji-Kpav, Tordonga area of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, following a disagreement with a Ward Commander of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard (BSCPG). The incident, which occurred during a confrontation at the commander’s duty post, has thrown the local community into shock and mourning.
According to sources familiar with the incident, the tragedy happened when the BSCPG Ward Commander was carrying out his lawful duties in the area. The commander was said to be standing at his post and exchanging pleasantries with a young woman he knew when two men approached them. The men were later identified as Mr. Iorkase, the deceased teacher, and another individual.
Eyewitnesses alleged that the two men appeared to be heavily intoxicated at the time. One of the men, reportedly Mr. Iorkase, began to harass the young woman. He allegedly claimed to be her teacher and questioned her for not greeting him. The situation reportedly became tense and uncomfortable for those present.
An eyewitness explained that the BSCPG commander tried to calm the situation by explaining that he was already in a discussion with the woman. However, this intervention reportedly angered the teacher, who felt disrespected. What began as a verbal exchange soon escalated into a heated argument.
Residents said the argument quickly drew attention, as voices were raised and tempers flared. As tension increased, the situation reportedly took a dangerous turn when the two men allegedly attempted to seize the commander’s service rifle. This action caused panic among nearby residents, many of whom fled the scene out of fear.
A source who witnessed the incident said people began running when they saw the men move toward the weapon. According to him, grabbing a firearm from an armed security officer is extremely risky, as such officers are trained to defend themselves and prevent their weapons from being taken.
In the course of the struggle to seize the rifle, the firearm reportedly discharged. The bullet hit Mr. Iorkase, causing severe injuries. He was said to have collapsed immediately and died almost on the spot before any help could arrive.
The situation reportedly worsened as people continued to flee the area. The second man, who was with the deceased teacher, was alleged to have pulled out a locally made pistol and shot the BSCPG commander in his right hand. After firing the shot, he reportedly escaped from the scene.
Following the incident, the police were immediately alerted. Officers from the Nigeria Police Force arrived at the scene and took control of the situation. The injured BSCPG commander was taken into protective custody, while the body of the deceased teacher was evacuated for further examination.
The police arrested the BSCPG commander to assist with investigations, in line with standard procedure in cases involving firearms and loss of life. Authorities said this step was necessary to allow for a full and fair investigation into what truly happened.
The Benue State Commander of the Civil Protection Guard, Captain Ayuma Ajobi (retd.), confirmed the incident. He stated that the matter had been officially handed over to the police for a thorough investigation. According to him, the agency is cooperating fully with law enforcement to ensure that justice is served.
“The incident occurred, and the police are currently investigating to establish the full facts surrounding the matter,” Captain Ajobi said. He did not provide further details but assured the public that due process would be followed.
The death of Mr. Iorkase has sparked grief and concern in the Abaji-Kpav community, where he was reportedly known as a teacher. Residents described him as someone who worked in the post-primary school system, contributing to the education of young people in the area. His sudden death has raised questions about safety, conduct, and the use of firearms by security personnel.
Benue State has, in recent years, expanded the role of community-based security outfits such as the Benue State Civil Protection Guard. The BSCPG was set up to support conventional security agencies in maintaining peace, protecting lives and property, and assisting in crime prevention, especially in rural areas. Members of the outfit are often stationed at duty posts within communities to provide a sense of security.
However, incidents involving firearms, especially when civilians and security personnel clash, often raise public concern. Many residents believe such situations highlight the need for proper training, restraint, and clear rules of engagement for security operatives, as well as responsible behavior by members of the public.
Community leaders in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area have called for calm, urging residents not to take the law into their hands. They appealed to security agencies to ensure a transparent investigation so that the truth can be established and justice done.
The police are expected to investigate several aspects of the incident, including the conduct of the BSCPG commander, the actions of the deceased and his companion, and the circumstances that led to the discharge of the firearm. Efforts are also ongoing to track down the second man who allegedly shot the commander and fled.
As investigations continue, the family of the deceased teacher has been left to mourn his loss. Friends, colleagues, and former students have expressed sadness over his death, describing it as a tragic end that could have been avoided.
This incident adds to ongoing discussions in Benue State and across Nigeria about public safety, alcohol abuse, and the interaction between civilians and armed security personnel. Many observers say it underscores the importance of conflict resolution, self-control, and respect for authority in preventing avoidable loss of life.
The police have urged anyone with useful information about the incident, especially regarding the whereabouts of the fleeing suspect, to come forward. Authorities have assured the public that updates will be provided as investigations progress.
