The Delta State Police Command has apprehended a 48-year-old man, Mr. Efe Onoetiyi, for the gruesome murder of his best friend, Paulinus Okon, after defrauding him of more than N50 million. The suspect was paraded on Monday alongside four accomplices involved in the crime.
The Disappearance and Initial Deception
According to the Delta State Commissioner of Police, Abaniwonda Olufemi, the case began when Paulinus was reported missing by his brother on September 8, 2024. Paulinus was last seen leaving with his friend, Efe Onoetiyi.
Initially, Efe denied knowing Paulinus’s whereabouts, even visiting the victim’s family to inquire about him. Later, he claimed to have information about the supposed kidnappers and demanded N500,000 to pay a herbalist who could locate Paulinus. Subsequently, he collected an additional ransom of N20.7 million from the family, pretending to negotiate with the kidnappers.
Confession and the Gruesome Details
Efe’s story unraveled after his arrest and the subsequent investigation led by the Ekpan Divisional Police Officer (DPO). A key breakthrough came with the arrest of an accomplice, Okeimute Gaga, who confessed to the crime.
According to Okeimute, on September 8, 2024, Efe orchestrated the murder of Paulinus near the Orere River in Otokutu. Along with accomplices Sunday Ikpeba and a 30-year-old herbalist, Lawrence Joseph, they tied Paulinus to a stake, beheaded him, and disposed of his body in the river. The herbalist buried the victim’s head at his shrine in Otokutu.
Police operatives later recovered Paulinus’s skull from the shrine, confirming the grisly account.
Motive for the Murder
During interrogation, Efe revealed his motive for the killing. He admitted that Paulinus had entrusted him with N30 million to purchase a property, but he diverted the funds for personal use. Efe used the money to buy land and start constructing a duplex. Unable to explain the misuse of funds, he decided to kill Paulinus to avoid confrontation.
Police Statement and Community Warning
The Commissioner of Police condemned the heinous act and urged the public to be vigilant, particularly during the festive season. He expressed concern over the declining moral standards in society, particularly in the upbringing of male children.
“This case is a stark reminder to be cautious about the friends we keep,” Olufemi said, emphasizing the importance of instilling moral values in children.
Suspects Confess to Ritual Killing
In an interview, the suspects confessed to their roles in the crime, claiming that Paulinus’s head was sacrificed to the gods of the community. All four suspects are in custody, and further investigations are ongoing.
Public Reaction
The shocking details of this case have sparked outrage and sorrow, with many calling for swift justice for the victim. The incident underscores the importance of vigilance and the dire consequences of misplaced trust. The police have assured the public that the suspects will face the full weight of the law for their actions.
