Ofure Akhigbe
The Edo State Police Command has launched a manhunt for one Timothy Gilbert, who allegedly attacked his girlfriend, Angela Ogah (40), with a substance suspected to be acid in Ikpoba Hill, Benin City.
Confirming the incident on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, said the suspect carried out the attack at Ihovbe Quarters, Ikpoba Hill, before fleeing the area.
“The Command has commenced a manhunt for the suspect and I am sure he will be brought to justice,” Yamu said.
He disclosed that the incident was linked to a dispute between the estranged lovers over alleged infidelity. He advised couples in troubled relationships to part ways peacefully rather than resort to violence, noting that “love is not by force.”
The victim’s lawyer, John Izegaegbe, disclosed on Monday that Ogah is currently receiving treatment at a private hospital, where she is battling for her life. He said a petition has been submitted to the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, demanding urgent action.
“When journalists visited her, she could barely speak. The victim is in severe pain,” Izegaegbe said.
He appealed to security agencies to intensify efforts to arrest the fleeing suspect without delay.