Ondo Police investigate reported deaths in Odigbo over suspected poisoning

Crime Diary

AKURE, Nigeria (NPA) — The Ondo State Police Command has commenced an investigation into reports of the deaths of some residents in parts of Odigbo Local Government Area amid suspicions that the incidents may be linked to possible poisoning.

The Command said the reported deaths occurred in communities including Odigbo, Araromi-Obu and Orita New Town, adding that it was working with the Ondo State Government and relevant health authorities to establish the actual cause of the fatalities.

According to a statement signed by DSP Abayomi Jimoh, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ondo State Command, on September 9, 2026, the Command has commenced a comprehensive investigation into the incidents to determine the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths.

Advertisement

Police personnel, including officers from Police Medical Services, are working closely with officials of the Ondo State Ministry of Health and the Odigbo Local Government health authorities to collect relevant information and evidence.

The Command said medical and toxicological examinations are also being conducted to determine whether any substance was responsible for the reported fatalities.

At this stage, the police cautioned members of the public against spreading unverified information or attributing the deaths to any particular substance, stressing that investigations and laboratory analyses are still ongoing.

The Command said the actual number of casualties and the precise cause of the deaths would be established through the ongoing investigation.

It further urged residents of the affected communities to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities by providing useful information that could assist investigators in establishing the facts surrounding the incidents.

Residents were also advised to refrain from consuming unregulated or suspicious alcoholic and herbal preparations pending the outcome of the investigation.

The Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Felix Ohagwu, assured members of the public that the Command remained committed to unraveling the circumstances surrounding the incidents and would take appropriate action against anyone found culpable.

The Command said it would continue to liaise with the Ondo State Government and relevant agencies and provide further updates as soon as credible findings emerge.