In a shocking turn of events, Arthur Angel, a prominent anti-death penalty advocate, was brutally killed by unknown assailants in his hometown of Ugboha, Esan South East, Edo State on Sunday. His body was found in a shallow grave, and his house was set ablaze by the attackers.
Angel’s life was marked by a remarkable story of resilience and dedication to justice. He spent nine years on death row for a crime he maintained he did not commit, and upon his release, he dedicated his life to fighting against the death penalty through his foundation, Life Wire International Foundation.
Through his art exhibitions and drawings, Angel traveled to over 15 countries, passionately advocating for the abolition of capital punishment. His tireless efforts inspired countless individuals and sparked important conversations about human rights and justice.
Angel’s tragic murder has sent shockwaves throughout the human rights community, and his legacy will be deeply missed. His courageous fight for justice and human rights will never be forgotten.
When contacted, Angel’s cousin, Michael Ihaza, on Tuesday, he confirmed the assassination of his uncle.
He said, “I cannot really say if he had a problem with anyone. He won several cases over family land, but I really don’t know if that brought issues between him and anyone.
“He never reported any threat to his life to me. However, his 15-year-old son, who reported the case to the police in Ugboha, has been taken into custody for questioning, but I don’t think he has a hand in his father’s death.
“His son was arrested the same day he was killed. The narrative that is making the rounds within the police circle and in town is that the boy is also a suspect.
“My late uncle fought for humanity in his lifetime. How worked on prison reform, and he was a gentleman. I never heard that he had a problem with anyone.
“The police say they are investigating the matter, so we don’t want to say anything that will jeopardise the investigation. Hopefully, the culprit will be identified and brought to justice.
A Facebook user, Okoro James, in a post on Angel’s page, described the deceased as a philanthropist who made his days in the National Youth Service Corp in Ugbowo, a memorable one.
James wrote, “I spoke with you last week over the phone, and you promised to visit me immediately after you get to Lagos. Oh, What a wicked world.
“Sir Arthur, you made my NYSC days in Ugboha, Edo State, a memorable one because you took all of us as your own siblings. You took proper care of us and provided all our immediate needs, especially your fatherly advice on how to conquer and survive after NYSC.
“Your philanthropic depositions towards humanity won’t go unnoticed, having freed thousands of inmates who were unjustly incarcerated both locally and internationally through your platform, Life Wire International.
“Sir Arthur Judah Angel, as we await to see the needed justice over your death is done, may your killers never find peace wherever they are, Amen.”
When contacted, the Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command, Chidi Nwabuzor, said the incident had not been reported to the police command. He urged citizens to promptly report crimes to the police so that they can begin an investigation in time.
When told that the matter had already been reported to the police station, he said, “We have to find out where and get the DPO to acquaint the command about the case.”
