The Edo State Police Command has officially identified the victim who lost his life in the fatal shooting incident at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) on Sunday as Alexander Omogiate.
The attack, which occurred around 5 pm on Monday, 10, 2026, has prompted a high-level investigation and a firm condemnation from the state government.
According to the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the incident occurred at the institution’s main gate in Benin City’s Ugbowo area.
You May Also Like
Preliminary investigations revealed that three occupants of a Mercedes-Benz GLK vehicle, identified as Onwuke Blessed, Alexander Omogiate and Chinenye Christian Mbagwu, were driving out of the campus when an unidentified GLK vehicle suddenly intercepted them.
The assailants lowered their windows and opened fire on the victims before fleeing to an unknown destination.
As a result of the direct attack, Alexander Omogiate, who was driving the vehicle, was confirmed dead upon arrival at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH).
The other two occupants sustained varying degrees of gunshot injuries, while a female passerby, identified as Derathy Uba, was also struck by bullets.
Contrary to earlier rumours circulating on social media, the police have confirmed that Dorathy Ubah is alive and responding to treatment alongside the other victims.
The Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, personally visited the injured at the hospital to verify their conditions and has since ordered a full-scale investigation into the “heinous act,” vowing that no stone will be left unturned in tracking down the fleeing perpetrators.
In a significant development, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has also intervened, ordering a thorough probe into the killing. The Governor, who described the incident as an “affront on human dignity and a threat to public safety,” assured the public that the case will not be swept under the rug and that the perpetrators will face justice.
His statement, released by his Chief Press Secretary, extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and reiterated his administration’s firm resolve to stamp out cultism and violent crime across the state.
While police sources have not formally ruled out cultism as a motive, preliminary reports from the university management suggest the clash was linked to cult-related violence occurring outside the campus.
However, other sources have emerged suggesting the killing may be connected to a dispute over an alleged financial deal. The University of Benin management, through its Public Relations Officer, Dr Benedicta Ehanire, has formally dissociated its staff and students from the incident, urging the university community to remain vigilant and continue their academic activities peacefully.
The Edo State Police Command has appealed to members of the public with credible information to assist the ongoing investigation by reporting to the nearest police station or contacting the Command via its emergency lines.
Ehi Ekhator is a dedicated freelance journalist who specializes in writing about crime and politics, with a particular focus on the African continent, notably Nigeria.
With a keen eye for detail and a passion for uncovering stories that matter, Ehi’s work delves deep into the intricacies of complex issues, providing insightful perspectives and in-depth analysis.
Ehi’s commitment to journalism is unwavering, and their ability to shed light on pressing matters within the realm of politics and crime is commendable. If you’re looking to connect or collaborate with Ehi Ekhator, you can reach out via email at ehi@tstga.com
His work serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the political and criminal landscape in Africa, making Ehi a respected voice in the field of journalism.
More Stories
Doctor-Lawyer Beaten to Pulp, Buried in Shallow Grave: Five Hang as Mastermind Still on the Run
Fire Razes Popular Supermarket in Benin, Destroys Property Worth Millions
Court Declares National Assembly’s N110 Billion SUV and Allowance Schemes Unlawful
Edo Security Corps Nabs Seven Suspected Kidnappers Terrorising Edo Central
Alleged WASSCE Students Kidnapped: Police, Green Park School Management Debunk Rumour
