Tragedy as gunmen kill businessman hours before child’s dedication in Edo

Residents of Ekpoma have been thrown into mourning following the tragic killing of a businessman, Justice Oshioke, just hours before the dedication of his newborn child.

Oshioke, who was reportedly the Chief Executive Officer of Principle Takeout, a popular fast-food outlet in the area, was shot dead on Saturday night by suspected kidnappers.

According to reports, the incident occurred in the Idumebo area of Ekpoma while the businessman was on his way home.

An eyewitness, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal, said the assailants attempted to abduct him, but he resisted.

“The attackers tried to drag him into the bush, but he resisted, and he was shot.

“People rushed him to a nearby hospital, where he was confirmed dead,” the source said.

The incident was said to have occurred a day before the dedication of his newborn child.

The development has left residents in shock, with many expressing concern over insecurity in the area.

The spokesperson for the Edo State Police Command, Eno Ikoedem, confirmed the incident in a statement on Sunday.

“The Edo State Police Command is deeply saddened by the tragic murder of Justice Abu Oshioke. He was fatally shot by unidentified armed men on May 2, 2026, at about 9:55 p.m. at Idumebo, Ekpoma,” Ikoedem said.

She added that the victim was rushed to the hospital, where he was confirmed dead.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the incident.

Police said efforts were ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators and urged members of the public to provide useful information.