How 75-Year-Old Attah of Igala’s Sister, Daughter, Granddaughter Were Burnt to Death in Kogi
In a tragic incident in Oketekwe, Idah Local Government Area of Kogi State, Mallama Meimunat Opaluwa-Sani, a 75-year-old woman and sister of the Attah of Igala, Matthew Alaji Opaluwa Oguche Akpa II, fell victim to a horrifying arson attack. Alongside her, her daughter and five-year-old granddaughter, named Onechojo, were also subjected to the same fate.
It was a devastating event that unfolded in the early hours of Thursday. The assailants, as yet unidentified, targeted the residence where the elderly woman, her daughter Hajarat Usman Sani, and granddaughter were asleep. The attackers reportedly doused the house with gasoline before igniting a fire, leading to severe consequences.
Tragically, the five-year-old granddaughter lost her life immediately due to the severe burns sustained in the attack. Mallama Meimunat Opaluwa-Sani and her daughter were rushed to the hospital, where Mallama eventually succumbed to her injuries. Hajarat Usman Sani, present during the assault, is currently fighting for her life.
Adding to the sorrow, the 75-year-old victim had been honored with the traditional title of Akwuma Attah Igala in 2023 by her brother, the Attah. The incident has left the community in shock and grief, as the victims were laid to rest following Islamic customs.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, William Ovye Aya, mentioned that the police had not been informed about the incident when contacted. However, he assured that updates would be provided once the command received information about the incident.
Expressing sympathy, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, the Minister of Steel Development, conveyed condolences to the Attah of Igala, Alaji Mathew Opaluwa. He characterized the losses as heartbreaking and urged security agencies to thoroughly investigate the reported arson, ensuring those responsible are held accountable.
In response to the tragic event, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, advocated for heightened security measures in the state. Emphasizing the need for consistent safety for every citizen, she called for the implementation of technology to enhance security both within the state and nationwide.
Senator Jibrin Isah Echocho (Kogi East) condemned the incident as heartless, cruel, and brutal. He urged the police and other security forces to pursue and apprehend those responsible for the atrocious attack. Extending condolences to the Attah Igala and the Royal Family, Senator Echocho emphasized the collective rejection of such acts in Igalaland and vowed to ensure justice is pursued to prevent a recurrence of such a dastardly act in Kogi East.