Benue Family Announces Burial of Two Children Allegedly Burnt to Death by Father’s Girlfriend

A family in Benue State has released the obituary of two children who tragically lost their lives after they were allegedly set ablaze by their father’s lover in Zaki-Biam, Ukum Local Government Area of the state.

Naijapunchnews reports that the victims, identified as Precious and Seember, died after a woman identified as Mbayegh allegedly set fire to the hut where they were sleeping following a disagreement with their father.

The tragic incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Monday, July 6, 2026, in the Kaffe area of Zaki-Biam.

According to community sources, the suspect had visited the residence of her alleged lover, Aondoyima Ierkwagh, and requested to spend the night at his home.

However, the man reportedly declined her request and insisted that she leave the premises despite her repeated pleas.

The sources alleged that the woman refused to leave, believing that another woman was inside the compound.

“She perhaps thought that her man, Aondoyima Ierkwagh, had brought in another woman, which angered her,” a community source said.

It was further gathered that Ierkwagh’s wife had travelled to a village in neighbouring Taraba State for farming activities at the time of the incident.

According to the source, the man later locked his two daughters inside a traditional round hut where they were to sleep before retiring to another hut within the compound.

At about midnight, the suspect allegedly set the children’s hut on fire, reportedly believing the man’s supposed new partner was inside.

“At about midnight, the distraught woman, who was suspecting that the other woman was in the hut, allegedly set the hut where the two daughters were sleeping ablaze, and they were burnt beyond recognition,” the source added.

The horrific incident claimed the lives of the two young girls, whose remains were recovered after the fire.

The bereaved family has now released the obituary announcing the children’s burial, as relatives, friends and members of the community continue to mourn the tragic loss.

The case has sparked outrage in the community, with residents calling for a thorough investigation and justice for the victims. Authorities are expected to continue investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident.