Dare Babalola
The Edo State Police Command has commenced an investigation into a fatal shooting incident that occurred around the University of Benin (UNIBEN) axis in Benin City, leaving one person dead and several others injured.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikioedem, the attack happened on Saturday, May 10, 2026, at about 5:00 p.m.
Police said preliminary findings 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 university premises when they were suddenly ambushed.
The statement explained that an unidentified white GLK vehicle intercepted them near the UNIBEN main campus gate in Ugbowo.
The occupants of the suspicious vehicle reportedly lowered their windows and opened fire on the victims before fleeing the scene.
“As a result of the attack, all occupants of the vehicle sustained varying degrees of gunshot injuries,” the statement said.
Police also disclosed that a female passerby, identified as Dorathy Ubah, was hit during the shooting and sustained injuries.
Following the incident, security operatives were said to have swiftly responded and evacuated the victims to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) for emergency treatment.
However, one of the victims, Alexander Omogiate, was later confirmed dead by doctors on duty.
The Command added that other injured persons are currently receiving treatment and responding positively.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, ordered a full-scale investigation aimed at identifying and arresting those behind the attack.
“The Commissioner of Police has directed a comprehensive investigation into the matter with a view to tracking down the fleeing perpetrators and bringing them to justice,” the statement noted.
The police also issued a stern warning to criminal elements operating within the state, especially around tertiary institutions, to desist from violence and unlawful activities.
“The Edo State Police Command remains resolute and unwavering in its commitment to rid the state of all forms of crime and criminality. No stone will be left unturned in ensuring those responsible for this heinous act are brought to justice,” the Command stated.
The police further appealed to members of the public with useful information that could aid the investigation to report to the nearest police station or contact the Command through its emergency lines.
Authorities assured residents that all information provided would be treated with utmost confidentiality.
