OSOGBO – The Osun State Police Command has arrested a couple after the husband allegedly stabbed a prominent bishop to death in a suspected act of jealousy. The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday in Osogbo, the state capital.
The deceased, identified as Bishop Shina Olaribigbe, was the leader of the Rapture Empowerment International Church in Osogbo. According to Yemisi Opalola, the spokesperson for the police command, preliminary investigations suggest that the suspect attacked the bishop after discovering him at his estranged wife’s residence.
Opalola confirmed that the suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, allegedly acted on the suspicion that Olaribigbe was having an affair with his wife.
“We were informed that the pastor was at the woman’s house today (Thursday) when the husband arrived. We were also told that the husband stabbed the pastor,” Opalola said.
A Violent Encounter Fueled by Suspicion
Reports indicate that the couple had been embroiled in ongoing marital disagreements, which eventually led to their separation. Bishop Olaribigbe had reportedly been trying to mediate in their marital crisis before their separation.
According to police accounts, the suspect stormed his wife’s residence in the early hours of the morning and found the bishop on his wife’s bed. Enraged, he allegedly attacked Olaribigbe with a knife, stabbing him multiple times.
“The husband stabbed him several times, and he died on the spot. It is believed the husband acted on suspicion that the pastor was having an affair with his wife,” Opalola added.
Shockwaves Through the Community
The incident has sent shockwaves through the Osogbo community, particularly among members of the Rapture Empowerment International Church, where the late bishop was highly regarded for his spiritual leadership.
Local residents expressed shock and disbelief at the violent encounter, with many describing Olaribigbe as a peace-loving clergyman who had devoted his life to reconciling families and promoting unity within the community.
One church member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “Bishop Olaribigbe was known for his counseling sessions with couples facing difficulties in their marriages. It’s heartbreaking to see him fall victim to the same crisis he tried to resolve for others.”
Police Investigation Ongoing
The Osun State Police Command has confirmed that both the husband and his estranged wife are in custody as investigations continue.
Opalola assured the public that the command is committed to unraveling the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensuring justice is served.
“We have both the husband and wife in custody for questioning. The investigation is ongoing to determine all the factors that led to this tragic event,” she said.
A Case of Love, Betrayal, and Tragedy
While the investigation continues, the case has sparked conversations around marital disputes and domestic violence. Legal experts have urged the public to avoid taking matters into their own hands in emotionally charged situations, emphasizing the importance of seeking legal and professional help.
The tragic death of Bishop Olaribigbe serves as a grim reminder of how unresolved conflicts can escalate into violence, leaving devastating consequences for all involved.
The Osun State Police Command has promised to keep the public informed as more details emerge.
