Commercial driver kills lover, dumps body on Edo road

A 42-year-old mini-bus driver, Osabuohen Igerevba, has been arrested for allegedly killing his 32-year-old lover, Joy Jerome, in Benin, the capital of Edo State.

The Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, disclosed this via a statement issued on Tuesday, January 20, 2026.

Ikoedem said the incident was reported by the Ohen (community Chief Priest) of Ikpe community, who alerted the police to the discovery of a lifeless female body by the roadside near a river, on January 10.

Ikoedem stated: “Operatives of the Idogbo Division immediately responded to the report.

“The body was moved to the hospital where she was confirmed dead and subsequently deposited at the Stella Obasanjo Mortuary.”

The police spokesperson said investigations identified the deceased as Joy Jerome and the arrest of Igerevba.

“Further investigation revealed that the suspect and the deceased were in a romantic relationship,” Ikoedem said, adding that events leading to her death occurred on January 9.

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She explained that the driver allegedly picked up the victim at night, and an argument broke out while they were on their way to his residence.

Ikoedem said: “He accused her of cheating on him and complained that he had not been able to reach her for about two days.

“During the argument, he parked the vehicle along the road. In the heat of the moment, he assaulted her.”

Ikoedem said the woman became unresponsive and was rushed to a hospital, where she was confirmed dead on arrival.

“Out of panic, the suspect later drove to a community close to the river and dumped the body, where it was discovered the following day,” the police spokesperson added.

Ikoedem said the driver confessed to the crime, while investigations continued.

Using the incident to caution the public, Ikoedem added: “We advise members of the public, particularly young women, to be very cautious in their relationships.

“Avoid abusive relationships and avoid quarrels in lonely places or with hot-tempered partners.”

The Star