The Benue Police Command in Benue, on Sunday, confirmed a report of a middle-aged married man, identified as Nicodemus, who set himself and his girlfriend ablaze in Makurdi.
The command’s Spokesperson, DSP Catherine Anene, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Makurdi that Nicodemus died on the spot, while the girlfriend, also identified as Shiminenge, died later at the Benue State Teaching Hospital, Makurdi.
Anene explained that Nicodemus committed the act at his girlfriend’s residence on Inkipi Street, High-Level area of Makurdi on Saturday evening.
She said that an argument had ensued between them, adding, however, that the cause of the argument was unknown.
She said that Nicodemus had locked himself and the lady in her room before setting the room ablaze.
“According to an eyewitness, there was an argument between the lovers which we are yet to find out.
“We understand that Nicodemus, while coming to Shiminenge’s house, came along with fuel,” the police spokesperson reported.
A neighbour of Shiminenge also told NAN correspondent that Nicodemus had abandoned his wife and kids for the lady and that trouble ensued when the lady told him of her plan to marry someone else.
“Nicodemus was not happy with the lady over her decision to leave him for another man.
“He had earlier abandoned his wife and kids for Shiminenge. So, he couldn’t bear the disappointment,” the neighbor, who preferred anonymity, said.