A commercial motorcyclist, popularly known as an okada rider, has been brutally murdered by a suspected bike thief who disguised as a passenger in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The Kogi State Police Command confirmed the tragic incident on Thursday, with its spokesperson, SP Williams Ovye-Aya, revealing that the attack occurred around 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday.
According to the police, the suspect flagged down the victim and asked to be taken to a secluded area, offering a higher-than-normal fare. Tempted by the offer, the unsuspecting rider agreed to the trip. However, things took a dark turn when they arrived at the remote location.
“The Okada man had agreed probably because of the promise of a higher pay,” Ovye-Aya said. “But on getting to the lonely place, the passenger brought out a machete and attacked him, then escaped with the motorcycle.”
The victim, later identified as Adewale Jethro, was rushed to a nearby hospital but died before he could receive treatment.
The police spokesperson warned okada riders to be extra cautious, especially when offered large sums by unknown passengers heading to isolated places. “This incident should serve as a serious warning to all bike riders to be security conscious. Their lives are valuable,” he added.
Ovye-Aya further confirmed that an investigation has been launched to track down the fleeing suspect.
The killing has sparked outrage in the Kabba community, with the Owe Titun Development Association condemning the act as both tragic and barbaric.
In a statement signed by the group’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Emmanuel Sunday-Olorunmaiye, the association called for a swift and thorough investigation by security agencies.
“We are heartbroken by the horrifying details of this incident,” the statement read. “His motorcycle was stolen, and the weapon used to scatter his head and skull was left at the scene. This is not just a crime; it is a brutal violation of human dignity.”
The group described the murder as a threat to the peace and safety of the community and demanded that the police leave no stone unturned in finding and prosecuting the culprit.
“This must not be swept under the carpet. Justice must be served to restore faith in the security of our people,” the statement added.
This incident adds to the growing concerns over the safety of commercial motorcyclists in Nigeria, who often fall victim to violent attacks, especially in remote areas.
Many have called on local authorities to strengthen community policing, increase patrols in rural areas, and regulate okada operations more closely to prevent such crimes in the future.
As of the time of filing this report, the suspect was still on the run, while police investigations continue.