It has emerged that Maria Oredola Igbinedion, the mother of former two-time Governor of Edo State, Lucky Nosakhare Igbinedion might not have died naturally, but strangled by her housemaid, who is currently on the run.
It was gathered that the 85-year-old woman was strangled by her yet-to-be-named housemaid, at her residence in Ugbor, GRA, Benin-City, the State capital.
It was further learnt that the maid who hailed from Cross River State, ransacked the deceased’s home for jewelry and money before taking off.
Maria Igbinedion was wheelchair-bound since her 80th birthday, but was otherwise believed to be in good health.
A close family source, told PM News on the phone that security forces had been alerted with a view to tracking the runaway suspect down.
“Any amount, I repeat, any amount will be paid for information leading to the arrest of this girl. She is a murder suspect and is wanted by the police and Benin people,” he said.
The police are yet to confirm whether they are working on the murder theory.
Efforts to seek confirmation from the State Police Command spokesman, SP Kontongs Bello failed, as his phone was switched off.
Maria Oredola was the first wife of the Esama of Benin Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion.
She is survived by her husband, her children, former Governor, Lucky Igbinedion, Bright Igbinedion, Charles Igbinedion and Mabel Amadin and many grandchildren.
Meanwhile, the burial arrangements for the Octogenarian have been announced by the family.
According to the burial programme, a service of songs will be held for the deceased on Thursday, 9 December, 2021.
She will be interred on Friday, 10 December, 2021, after a funeral service at St. Augustine Catholic Church, by Water Resources Off Ugbor Road, in Benin.
Credit: TheWillNigeria
