A man identified as Lawal Faruq has allegedly set his former lover, Omolola Hassan, ablaze following a disagreement that erupted after their relationship ended at a military barracks in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The horrifying incident reportedly occurred earlier in the week and caused panic among residents within the barracks, who rushed to the scene after hearing the victim’s desperate cries for help.
According to eyewitnesses, the suspect, enraged by the breakup, poured petrol on the woman and set her on fire.
The victim sustained severe burns before soldiers at the barracks intervened and extinguished the flames.
A counterinsurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, who shared details of the incident on his X handle, said the suspect confessed to committing the act, claiming he and the victim had taken a blood oath never to separate.
Makama wrote, “The victim, Omolola Hassan, was reportedly doused with petrol and set on fire by the suspect, who was said to have been angered over the breakdown of their relationship.”
Reports indicate that the victim was quickly rushed to Yawiri Hospital, Akobo, where she is currently receiving treatment for extensive burns.
Security sources confirmed that Faruq has been taken into custody as investigations continue into the incident.
The spokesperson for the Oyo State Police Command, Adewale Osifeso, confirmed the case on Thursday, stating that a full investigation was underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack.
The violent act has triggered outrage among residents and social media users, who condemned the growing trend of domestic and relationship-related violence across the country.
Many Nigerians have called on authorities to strengthen laws protecting victims of gender-based violence and ensure swift justice in such cases.