Three arrested over suspicious death of 71-year-old cleric in Ondo
Three Arrested in Connection with Death of Cleric in Ondo State
The Ondo State Police Command has arrested three individuals in relation to the death of Elder Omotayo Fajana, a 71-year-old cleric of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church. Fajana’s body was found under suspicious circumstances in Akungba-Akoko.
Fajana had traveled to the town in Akoko South-West Local Government Area to participate in a church event, where he was due to be installed as the Baba Aladura of Ogo Orimolade Cherubim and Seraphim Church, Okerigbo.
The case has prompted controversy due to allegations that Fajana’s body was removed from a hotel room and transported to a mortuary in Ikare-Akoko without proper certification of death by a licensed medical professional.
The matter was reported to the Akungba Police Division by the deceased’s nephew, Olaseni Sunday Olaoluwa, who called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Fajana’s death.
On Monday, Police Public Relations Officer DSP Abayomi Jimoh confirmed the arrests and noted that a comprehensive investigation is underway to ascertain the cause of death.
“The command has commenced a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Mr. Omotayo Ezekiel Fajana, whose body was discovered under suspicious circumstances,” Jimoh stated.
Preliminary findings suggest that certain church officials and hotel staff may have moved the body without obtaining the necessary medical certification. Investigators are currently working to determine whether any criminal actions were involved.
Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Felix Ohagwu, has directed a discreet and comprehensive inquiry into the incident. The police have assured the public that anyone found culpable during the investigation will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
