The Edo state Police command has foiled alleged attempt by a man to contract a second marriage in Benin City, Edo state, in alleged bigamy.
The incident reportedly occurred on March 14, 2026, at the Federal Marriage Registry, where the suspect, Mr. Ajayi Patrick, was alleged to be entering another marital union despite an existing one.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Eno Ikoedem, in a statement said, the Aideyan Division had earlier received a complaint on March 12, prompting the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), CSP Adesuwa Omoruyi, to deploy operatives to the venue following a distress call.
Eno stated that the complainant, Igho Joy of Upper Mission Extension, was asked to provide documentary evidence, particularly a marriage certificate, to substantiate the allegation.
She said while investigation was ongoing to establish a prima facie case, the suspect was granted bail in line with standard procedure.
Eno stated that one Mr. Enabulele Sampson, 64, acted as a surety and was directed to produce him at the station on March 17, 2026.
“However, the surety failed to honour the bail conditions and has since been arrested.
”He will be arraigned before a court of competent jurisdiction to show cause why the bail bond should not be forfeited,” the statement added.
The command further stated that the suspect has fled the country to Canada in a bid to evade investigation, adding that INTERPOL has been contacted to assist in tracking and apprehending him.
The police described as false and misleading the claims by a group, “Freedom Ambassadors Organisation,” who accused the DPO of corruption and aiding the suspect’s escape.
The operatives insisted that all actions taken were in line with legal and professional standards, adding that bigamy is a bailable offence.
