The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the killing of an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Julius Bello, allegedly by his son in Fugar, Etsako Central Local Government Area of the state.
Bello, popularly known as De Lord Ogata, was the APC Ward Three Chairman in Fugar. He was reportedly attacked on Sunday, November 8, shortly after his son, identified as Irobudo, returned from Lagos.
According to family sources, the suspect allegedly struck his father on the head with a sledgehammer, inflicting injuries that resulted in his death.
Reports from the family suggest that the suspect had allegedly been influenced by claims from some prophets that his father was responsible for his prolonged poverty and lack of progress in life. These claims reportedly fuelled resentment towards Bello before the fatal incident.
Confirming the development, the Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, said the incident had been reported and an investigation had commenced.
She disclosed that the suspect was still at large, adding that the police were working to apprehend him and establish the circumstances surrounding the killing.
However, the police have not independently confirmed the alleged prophecy as the motive behind the attack.
The incident has raised serious concerns about the dangers of unverified spiritual accusations, particularly when individuals are encouraged to blame family members for their personal struggles and misfortunes.
A disturbing question remains: should religious leaders be held accountable when their alleged pronouncements contribute to hostility, suspicion or violence against innocent people?