A respected 71-year-old cleric, Mr Omotayo Ezekiel Fajana, has been found dead in a hotel in Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, under circumstances that have prompted a police investigation.
Fajana had travelled to the town to participate in a church programme at Ogo Orimolade Cherubim and Seraphim Church, Okerigbo, where he was expected to be formally installed as the Head Prayer Warrior Father of the church.
The development has thrown family members, church associates, and worshippers into mourning as authorities work to determine the circumstances surrounding his death.
Cleric Found Lifeless Before Scheduled Ceremony
According to reports, the cleric checked into a hotel in Akungba-Akoko ahead of the event but was later discovered lifeless in his room before the installation ceremony could take place.
His sudden death came as a shock to relatives and church members who had gathered for the religious programme.
A church member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the incident as heartbreaking.
“He came here healthy and in good spirits for a special assignment in the church. Nobody expected that he would not return home alive,” the source said.
Questions Over Movement of Body
Concerns intensified after reports emerged that the cleric’s remains were allegedly moved from the hotel to a mortuary in Ikare-Akoko before a formal medical certification of death was obtained.
Family members reportedly questioned the circumstances surrounding the movement of the body, leading to calls for a thorough investigation.
Sources familiar with the matter said the unusual sequence of events prompted relatives to notify security authorities.
Police Confirm Investigation
The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed that an investigation is underway.
Speaking on the development, the command’s spokesperson, DSP Jimoh Abayomi, said detectives were examining every aspect of the incident.
“The matter is under investigation, and detectives are looking into all circumstances surrounding the death. Anyone found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the law,” Abayomi stated.
Police sources disclosed that three individuals have been taken into custody and are assisting investigators as efforts continue to establish what transpired before the cleric’s death.
Church Members Demand Clarity
Members of the Cherubim and Seraphim community have called for transparency in the investigation.
One church elder said:
“This is not just a loss to his family but to the entire church community. We want the truth to come out so that everyone can have peace of mind.”
Another worshipper described Fajana as a devoted servant of God whose contributions to the church spanned several decades.
“He dedicated most of his life to spiritual service. We pray the authorities uncover exactly what happened.”
Awaiting Autopsy Results
As investigations continue, attention is expected to focus on medical examinations and witness accounts that could provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the cleric’s death.
Authorities have not yet announced an official cause of death, and police say no conclusion will be drawn until all findings are reviewed.
The family, church members, and residents of Akungba-Akoko remain hopeful that the investigation will provide answers regarding the death of the respected religious leader.
Sources: Vanguard, Ondo State Police Command
