In a shocking incident in Surulere, Ondo State, a 45-year-old woman identified as Abiodun, also known as "Iya Sunday," has been arrested for allegedly setting her 86-year-old mother on fire in a bid to end what she believed was a spiritual bondage.
According to witnesses, the tragic event unfolded early Friday morning at a residence opposite Anglican Cathedral Church in Ondo West local government area. Reports indicate that Abiodun poured petrol on her mother and set her ablaze around 5 a.m.
The victim, who sustained severe burns all over her body, is currently undergoing treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
Eyewitness Sola Oladele recounted the horrifying scene, stating that Abiodun arrived at her mother's house in the early hours and called her outside before committing the heinous act.
READ ALSO
Ondo Governor Reduces Civil Servants’ Wage to Fund Tertiary Institution Workers’ Award
Ondo State Governor Mandates End to Estimated Billing, Launches Mass Metering Program
"We don’t know what happened between them before the incident," Oladele said, "but the suspect has been arrested by police at the Enu-Owa division for further investigation."
In a chilling confession, Abiodun explained her motive behind the gruesome act, attributing it to advice she received from a pastor and a woman. She claimed they both informed her that her mother was responsible for her ongoing troubles.
"I burnt my mother because of what I heard from the pastor and the woman," Abiodun stated remorsefully. "They said that I can only be freed from bondage when my mother is dead."
Authorities have indicated that the case will be transferred to the Police headquarters in Akure for thorough investigation.
The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting reflections on the consequences of extreme beliefs and the tragic outcomes they can lead to.
