Suspected Herdsmen Arrested After Rape and Killing of Elderly Woman in Ibadan

Residents of Ido Local Government Area in Ibadan have been thrown into mourning following the tragic rape and murder of an elderly woman, simply identified as Iya Okere. The incident, which reportedly occurred on Wednesday, has been attributed to suspected Fulani herdsmen operating in the area.

The matter came to public attention after renowned Ibadan-based investigative journalist, Seun Aribikola, received distress calls from community members on Wednesday night. He subsequently brought attention to the incident during his widely followed radio programme on SplashFM 105.5, Ibadan, calling on security agencies to intervene.

In response to the public outcry, security operatives moved swiftly into the area. According to feedback from residents, the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, alongside the Eruwa Area Commander and a tactical team, immediately launched a manhunt in nearby bushes.

During the operation, the leader of the herdsmen in the area was apprehended while hiding in the bush. Additionally, an Egede man accused of selling land to the herdsmen for the sum of ₦800,000 was also taken into custody by security forces.

However, as of the time of filing this report, the primary suspect directly linked to the rape and murder of the elderly woman has not been produced. This development has left community leaders and residents demanding answers and urging authorities to ensure that justice is served.

The incident has further heightened tensions in the Ido community, with locals calling on the government to address what they describe as a growing threat to lives and property in the area.