The Edo State Police Command has declared a businessman, Peter Agbamuche, wanted following a violent communal incident in Egba that resulted in the death of his associate, Mr. James Peter. The tragedy occurred on March 11, 2026, after a mob reportedly descended on an apartment at No. 1 Osagiede Omoregie Street, acting on suspicions of a same-sex encounter.
Agbamuche, identified as an oil and gas professional at the NNPC Benin Depot, had reportedly arrived at the residence shortly before a group of local youths stormed the premises.
While Agbamuche managed to escape the scene through a balcony and fled via the backyard, his associate was apprehended by the crowd.
James was allegedly subjected to a severe beating by the mob before police operatives arrived to take him into custody. He was later pronounced dead while in police detention.
In an official statement, the Edo State Police Command confirmed it is investigating the reports of the alleged homosexual act, which remains criminalized under Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act of 2013.
The law mandates a prison sentence of 10 to 14 years for individuals convicted of engaging in same-sex relationships or related activities.
The Command characterized the reported act as a heinous crime but simultaneously condemned the extrajudicial violence that led to the victim’s death.
Authorities have now intensified efforts to arrest all parties involved in the incident, including the members of the mob linked to the fatal assault on James Peter.
A full-scale manhunt for the fleeing Peter Agbamuche is currently underway, with the police collaborating alongside local vigilantes and other security agencies to track his whereabouts.
The Edo State Police Command has assured the public that justice will be pursued on two fronts: the investigation into the alleged violation of the nation’s same-sex prohibition laws and the prosecution of those responsible for the murder of James Peter.
Officials reiterated that while the law must be upheld, the state will not tolerate vigilantism or the unlawful killing of suspects in its jurisdiction.
