A man in Oko-Filling, Araromi, Ijoko, Sango Ota, barely escaped death after his wife and four sons allegedly conspired to have him tied up, gagged, and left to die over a dispute concerning his retirement benefits. The horrifying incident, which took place in the early hours of Thursday, March 13, was only thwarted by the intervention of vigilant neighbors who uncovered the sinister plot.
According to eyewitnesses, the victim had received his retirement payout and allocated part of it to set up two shops for his wife in Abule while also giving her N3 million in cash. He later purchased a N12 million car for himself, a decision that reportedly infuriated his wife and sons, all university graduates, who believed he should have surrendered the entire funds to them.
Tensions escalated after the man suddenly sold his newly acquired vehicle, raising suspicions among locals. On the night of the attack, landlords in the area were drawn to the family’s home by unusual noises and the sight of a small bus (“Korope”) being loaded with household items. Their attempt to inquire about the situation was met with evasive responses, prompting them to force their way inside.
“We found him bound hand and foot, with his mouth sealed, like an animal about to be slaughtered,” a resident revealed. “The attackers, including some hired men, were still inside, seemingly waiting for orders to finish him off.”
The victim was immediately rushed to the hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment. Meanwhile, his wife, sons, and six hired men have been arrested. One of the suspects confessed that the wife had contracted them to restrain her husband, confirming suspicions of a deliberate attack.
The police have yet to release an official statement regarding charges, but the case has sparked outrage, with many condemning the family’s actions as not only criminal but deeply inhumane.