LOKOJA, Kogi State — A woman who survived a horrific domestic attack in which her husband allegedly set her on fire has pleaded for his forgiveness, according to a pastor who visited her in hospital.
Mrs. Berida Irawo is receiving treatment at Honey Gold Hospital in Felele, Lokoja, after the incident that occurred on Friday, August 14, 2026, at their residence in Oworo Estate, Felele.
Her husband, Jacob Irewa (also referred to in some reports as Jacob Irawo), a teacher who has been described in initial accounts as a clergyman or self-acclaimed pastor, was arrested by the Kogi State Police Command in connection with the alleged attempted culpable homicide.
Police said the attack followed a domestic disagreement after Irawo allegedly burnt some of her husband’s clothes, which she believed he was no longer using, without his permission.
According to the command’s spokesperson, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, the suspect then threatened her, obtained petrol from his motorcycle, and set her ablaze. Irawo survived and remains under medical care. She is reported to be in stable condition and expected to be discharged in the coming days.
In a statement to police, Irewa admitted the act. He expressed remorse, saying he acted out of frustration and anger and did not know how it happened, adding “may God have mercy on me.” He claimed the couple had been married for several years without children and that he had never previously laid hands on his wife.
Pastor John Esiga Abu, who visited Irawo in hospital on Tuesday, August 18, confirmed that the victim is pleading for her husband’s forgiveness despite the severity of the attack. Abu also clarified, based on information from both families, that Irewa is a teacher rather than a pastor, contrary to some earlier social media reports.
The incident sparked outrage among residents of Oworo Estate and surrounding communities. Local youths reportedly attempted to attack the suspect before vigilantes intervened and handed him over to police. Religious leaders have condemned the violence, noting that it runs contrary to Christian teachings on love, forgiveness, and peaceful resolution of disputes.
Kogi State Police Commissioner CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi condemned the incident and reiterated the command’s zero tolerance for domestic violence. The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue, with plans to charge him to court for attempted culpable homicide once the probe is complete.
The case has drawn attention to ongoing efforts by the Kogi State Government to address gender-based violence and strengthen responses to family-related complaints.
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