Edo Police Speak on Hookup Dangers After 21-Year-Old Osato Edogiaweria Is Murdered — NaijaRush Report
The Edo State Police Command has issued a heartfelt warning to young women, especially those involved in casual or transactional relationships, often referred to as “hookups.” This caution comes in the wake of the tragic m¥rder of a 21-year-old woman named Osato Festus Edogiaweria.
The Command, through its spokesperson, emphasized the importance of always informing someone — a friend, sibling, parent, or roommate — about your whereabouts, especially when going out to meet someone new or unfamiliar. The advice was issued on Sunday, June 22, 2025, following the arrest of a suspect linked to Osato’s disappearance and subsequent d3ath.
“At least tell someone your location even if you are going for ‘hookup’,” the police spokesperson urged.
This seemingly simple piece of advice is now gaining attention on social media and among young Nigerians due to the heartbreaking outcome of Osato's case. Her story is not only tragic but also a sobering reminder of the dangers many young women face when engaging in secretive meetings or dates without adequate safety precautions.
What Happened to Osato Festus Edogiaweria?
Osato, a 21-year-old lady from Edo State, was declared missing in April 2025 after she visited a man identified as Joshua Osaigbovo. According to reports from the Edo State Police Command, that was the last time she was seen alive.
After weeks of investigation and pressure from family and the public, the police finally made a breakthrough in the case. The suspect, Joshua Osaigbovo, was apprehended in connection to Osato’s disappearance. During interrogation, he eventually led police operatives to a shallow grave where he had buried Osato’s body after allegedly m¥rdering her.
The sight was chilling. Her decomposed remains were exhumed from the unmarked grave, bringing a painful end to the search for the young woman. Osato’s family, friends, and the community are left in mourning, their worst fears confirmed.
Police Emphasize the Importance of Personal Safety
Following the discovery and arrest, the Edo State Police Command has intensified efforts to raise awareness about personal safety among young women in the state. The Command’s spokesperson used this tragic case to appeal to the public, especially the youth who frequently engage in “hookup” culture — a term widely used to describe casual meetups, often for romantic or sexual encounters, sometimes involving financial exchanges.
The spokesperson’s message was clear and straightforward:
“At least tell someone your location even if you are going for ‘hookup’.”
This advice is more than just a warning. It’s a cry for caution, a plea to take steps that could make a life-or-d3ath difference. By letting someone know where you are going and who you’re meeting, you increase the chances of being found quickly if something goes wrong.
Understanding the Risks of Secret Outings
In Nigeria, and particularly among the youth, the “hookup” trend has become increasingly common, largely fueled by social media, dating apps, and economic pressures. Many young women, and even men, engage in secret meetups, often with strangers they barely know. While not all hookups end in tragedy, stories like Osato’s reveal the dark side of this culture.
Some of the dangers include:
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Meeting people with criminal intentions.
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Being lured into dangerous or isolated places.
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Being drugged, assaulted, or even k!lled.
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Having no traceable trail, making it hard for authorities to help in time.
How to Stay Safe — Practical Safety Tips for Young Nigerians
In light of Osato’s painful story, NaijaRush is using this opportunity to highlight practical safety tips that everyone, especially young women, should follow when going out:
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Always Inform Someone: Whether it's your sibling, a trusted friend, or your roommate — always tell someone where you are going, who you’re meeting, and when you expect to be back.
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Use Technology: Share your live location via WhatsApp, Telegram, or location-sharing apps like Life360 with someone you trust.
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Avoid Going Alone: If possible, meet in a public place or go with a friend. Avoid isolated areas, especially on a first meeting.
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Do a Background Check: Don’t hesitate to do a quick online check on the person you’re meeting. Look for red flags.
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Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Don’t ignore warning signs.
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Avoid Giving Out Too Much Info: Until you’re sure of the person’s identity and intention, limit what personal information you share.
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Have an Emergency Plan: Always have airtime, data, and enough battery on your phone. Let someone know how to find you.
A Wake-Up Call for Nigeria’s Youth
Osato’s story has left many shaken, not just in Edo State but across Nigeria. On social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), many Nigerians have been discussing the dangers of hookup culture and calling for better education around personal safety.
Some have suggested that beyond police advice, schools and universities should incorporate personal security training and safety awareness into their orientation programs. Others believe that apps and dating platforms popular in Nigeria should add mandatory safety tips and emergency contact options.
One user on X commented:
“If Osato had just sent her location to a friend, maybe help would have come faster. This is so heartbreaking.”
Another wrote:
“This isn’t about blaming women. It’s about saving lives. We have to look out for each other.”
Justice for Osato — What Happens Next?
While the suspect, Joshua Osaigbovo, is currently in police custody, the legal process will now begin. If found guilty, he will face the full weight of the law. The Edo State Police Command has assured the public that they are committed to justice and will do everything within their power to ensure Osato’s family gets the closure they deserve.
As the investigation continues, the police are urging anyone with more information about the case or any other suspicious activity in the area to come forward.
Final Thoughts: Let's Learn From This Tragedy
To all young Nigerians: Your life matters. Your safety matters. Let someone know your location — even if it’s just a hookup.
Let Osato’s story be a turning point.
For more verified updates and safety awareness stories from across Nigeria, stay connected with NaijaRush.com.
