Police Investigate Mysterious Death of Officer in Ondo

The Ondo State Police Command has launched an investigation into the suspicious death of Inspector Yusuf Suleiman Blessing, a police officer stationed in the state. Blessing, a native of Ikoro-Ekiti, Ekiti State, was reportedly serving in Akotogbo, Irele Local Government Area of Ondo when he died under unclear circumstances on January 27, 2025.

According to his wife, who lives in Osi community in Akure North Local Government Area, Blessing was allegedly burnt to death. She claimed that after 24 hours of unsuccessful attempts to reach her husband, she received a call from the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) informing her that he had drowned. The next day, when the body was brought back to the community, the officers who delivered the coffin reportedly fled after pressure mounted to open it.

Upon opening the coffin, the family discovered that the body was burnt and had a cracked skull, which contradicted the initial claim of drowning, suggesting the possibility of foul play.

In response to the allegations, the Ondo State Police Command confirmed that a preliminary investigation by the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) did not initially suggest foul play, but the Commissioner of Police ordered a full autopsy to determine the cause of death in light of the family’s claims and public concern.

Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, speaking on Friday, reiterated that the Commissioner of Police, CP Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi, ordered the autopsy after hearing the family’s concerns. She stated, “Considering the outcry and allegations of foul play, the Commissioner of Police has ordered an autopsy to be conducted on the remains.”

The PPRO explained that on January 27, 2025, there were no clear answers about the whereabouts of the late inspector, leading the DPO to instruct a search party to trace him. Two days later, the officer in charge of the Police Marine discovered a body in a river, which was later identified as Inspector Blessing’s. The body was found fully clothed, with no apparent signs of violence, although a swollen area was noted on the center of his head.

The remains were taken to Irele General Hospital morgue, and the family was informed. Despite a request for an autopsy by the police, the family initially opposed the idea, insisting that the body be released for burial. The police honored the family’s request, and the body was transported to the deceased’s home in Akure at the police’s expense.

The police noted that the clothing the inspector was last seen wearing was still intact on his body when the corpse was found, ruling out any signs of arson or physical violence. The investigation continues, with an autopsy now set to determine the exact cause of death.