A New Year tragedy was averted in Edo State when Osaro Ahunwan, a 55-year-old man, allegedly set fire to the home of his estranged wife, Tina Uyi, in Idumwonwina, near Oluku, in the Ovia North-East Local Government Area.
Tina, a 54-year-old businesswoman residing in Italy, returned to Nigeria on December 31, 2024, to celebrate the New Year with her family. Upon learning of Tina’s return, Osaro attempted to force his way into her residence. When she refused him entry, he allegedly doused the building with petrol and set it ablaze.
Eyewitnesses reported that Tina heard a loud bang on her window as she was coming out of the bathroom but chose not to let him in. She firmly asserted that their relationship had ended after her family returned her bride price in April 2024.
The fire quickly engulfed the entire house, resulting in the destruction of property worth millions, including cash in both local and foreign currencies. Fortunately, Tina’s nonagenarian parents were rescued by neighbors, while the Edo State Fire Service responded promptly to extinguish the flames.
Tina spoke out about Osaro’s violent tendencies, detailing a past incident where he destroyed her Lexus (330) Jeep during a misunderstanding. “He is extremely controlling and overly suspicious of my movements. If I’m out shopping and he hears a male voice when he calls, he resorts to name-calling,” she stated.
Citing his aggressive and domineering nature as the reason for ending their marriage after less than two years, Tina declared, “This time, when he tried to enter my apartment and I refused, he committed this act of arson.” She also recounted a past threat where Osaro expressed intentions to kill her and himself.
