A tragic New Year incident was narrowly averted in Edo State when a 55-year-old man, Osaro Ahunwan, allegedly set fire to the home of his estranged wife, Tina Uyi, in Idumwonwina, near Oluku, Ovia North-East Local Government Area.
Tina, a 54-year-old Italy-based businesswoman, had returned to Nigeria on December 31, 2024, to celebrate the New Year with her family. Eyewitnesses reported that Osaro visited Tina’s residence but was denied entry, prompting him to allegedly douse the house with petrol and set it on fire.
A source revealed, “Osaro went to Tina’s house after learning she had returned. She heard a loud bang on her window while coming out of the bathroom but refused to let him in. She stated that their relationship had ended after her family returned the bride price in April 2024.”
The fire engulfed the house, destroying property worth millions of naira, including cash in both local and foreign currencies. Tina’s elderly parents, both in their 90s, were rescued by neighbors, while firefighters from the Edo State Fire Service managed to extinguish the blaze.
Tina, who sustained third-degree burns, is currently receiving treatment at a private hospital in Benin. Speaking to reporters, she recounted her ordeal, saying, “Osaro is very controlling and suspicious. He once destroyed my Lexus (330) Jeep during an argument. When I decided to end the marriage, he became violent. This arson happened because I refused him entry into my apartment.”
She further disclosed that Osaro had threatened to kill her and himself in 2023.
Police authorities in Ekiadolor have arrested Osaro and his alleged accomplice, Tina’s elder brother, Odaro Ovia Robo, who reportedly provided Osaro with information about Tina’s movements. During interrogation, Osaro admitted receiving details of Tina’s itinerary from Odaro.
Confirming the incident, Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Moses Yamu, stated that investigations are ongoing. Both Osaro and Odaro remain in police custody as the authorities continue to gather details about the case.