Businessman Escapes Death After Land Grabbers’ Attack In Edo

Ali Fawaz, a Benin-based Lebanese businessman, has appealed to Governor Godwin Obaseki and security agencies after he survived an attack by suspected land grabbers at his business premises on Saturday in Benin.

It was learnt that two persons were seriously injured when the attack took place at the office premises located at Ogbomo Street, off Sapele Road, Etete, Benin City

The Lebanese was attacked alongside some workers who were building a perimeter fence for lockup shops inside his property. The attack caused panic as residents living within the area took to their heels for fear of being attacked or hit by stray bullets.

Fawaz said, “I am appealing to Governor Godwin Obaseki and security agencies to curb the activities of hoodlums who parade themselves as community leaders to unleash mayhem on the people.

“I am still in shock over what happened here. The suspect who led the attack came with armed thugs and demolished the blocks my workers erected, where I had planned to make an additional gate and lock-up shops.

“He threatened to shoot anybody that attempt to stop him calling me a foreigner and that he was going to deal with me. I had earlier reported the matter at the Etete New Police Station. The suspect had boasted that he is untouchable.

“I am calling on Governor Obaseki and the relevant government authority to please come to my rescue. I am a law-abiding citizen and have contributed my quota to the development of this state. I’m a citizen of this country by naturalisation. I need protection against these deadly thugs.”

The spokesman for the Police Command in Edo, SP Bello Kontongs, confirmed the report and said two suspects have been arrested over the attack.

One of the suspects who was arrested and detained at the new Etete Police Station had laid claims to a parcel of land in the premises and demanded  ‘settlement fee’ from the Lebanese which the latter declined.