Edo Police Launch Manhunt for Irobudo Bello Over Alleged Killing of APC Chieftain Father Following Prophecy.
The Edo State Police Command has launched a manhunt for Irobudo Bello, who is accused of killing his father, Julius Bello, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in Fugar, Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State.
The deceased, popularly known as De Lord Ogata, reportedly served as the APC Ward Three Chairman in Fugar. According to media reports, he was allegedly attacked with a sledgehammer, which his son used to strike him on the head.
The incident reportedly occurred on Sunday, November 8, shortly after the suspect returned from Lagos over the weekend.
Preliminary accounts from witnesses and family sources suggest that the alleged attack may have been linked to claims made by individuals described as prophets, who reportedly told Irobudo that his father’s spiritual activities were responsible for his financial difficulties and inability to make progress in life.
The claims allegedly fuelled resentment against the older Bello before the fatal incident. However, the precise circumstances surrounding the attack and the extent to which the alleged prophecy influenced the suspect’s actions remain subject to police investigation.
Confirming the incident, the Edo State Police Command spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, said the command had commenced an investigation into the killing.
The police also indicated that the suspect was still at large as of the time the reports were published, with efforts underway to locate and apprehend him.
The incident has raised concerns about the potential consequences of unverified spiritual claims, particularly when they are used to assign blame for personal hardship, financial struggles or perceived misfortunes.
While freedom of religion and spiritual expression remains an important part of Nigerian society, allegations involving individuals who exploit religious influence or make damaging claims against others deserve careful scrutiny. Religious pronouncements should not become a justification for intimidation, violence or the breakdown of family relationships.
For now, the circumstances surrounding Julius Bello’s death remain under investigation. The police are expected to establish the full sequence of events, determine the suspect’s alleged role and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought before the law.
The incident also underscores the importance of responsible religious leadership, public awareness and the need for individuals to seek lawful and peaceful ways of addressing personal grievances.
As the police intensify efforts to apprehend the suspect, the investigation will be crucial in providing answers to the grieving family and the Fugar community.