Alleged Relationship Dispute Turns Tragic as Two Children Die in Benue House Fire

A tragic fire incident in Zaki Biam, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, has claimed the lives of two young sisters, while police have arrested a woman identified as Mbalumen Ikyenge in connection with the case.

According to the Benue State Police Command, the suspect allegedly set fire to the house of her boyfriend, Aondoyima Ierkwagh, in an incident reported to have occurred on the night of Sunday, July 5. The fire reportedly led to the deaths of the man’s two daughters, aged four and six, who later succumbed to severe burns.

Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, said the command received a report from the children’s father alleging that someone had deliberately set his house ablaze. She noted that investigations are ongoing to establish the exact circumstances and motive behind the incident.

Residents in the area, however, claimed the tragedy may have been triggered by a relationship dispute. According to eyewitness accounts, the suspect had visited her boyfriend’s residence but was asked to leave after allegedly suspecting that another woman was in the house. The witnesses further alleged that the woman later returned and set one of the huts on fire, believing it was occupied by her boyfriend and another woman. The flames reportedly spread to a nearby hut where the two children were asleep.

Neighbours rushed to the scene, rescued the girls and took them to a hospital for treatment, but both children later died from injuries sustained in the fire.

The Benue State Police Command said the suspect is in custody and that a full investigation is underway to determine the facts surrounding the incident. Authorities have urged members of the public to allow investigators to conclude their work and avoid speculation while the case is being handled.