The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a man, Elela Monday, for the alleged murder of his 14-year-old son, Tope Elela, in Ajowa Akoko, located in the Akoko North-West Local Government Area of the state.
The chilling crime was uncovered when the suspect reportedly buried the boy in a shallow grave beneath a banana tree behind their home.
The state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Wilfred Afolabi, confirmed the arrest, noting that Monday was among a series of recent apprehensions made by the police in their ongoing efforts to combat crime.
According to a statement released by the police on Sunday, the murder was initially reported after an anonymous tip-off on December 30.
Afolabi explained that Monday admitted to killing his son during interrogation, claiming that the boy had been involved in constant criminal activities, which caused him significant embarrassment.
In a bid to end the alleged disgrace, the father and his wife made the tragic decision to take their son’s life.
In a related development, the Commissioner also provided updates on the recent cult-related violence in Owo, where at least four people were reported dead.
Afolabi confirmed the arrest of 25 individuals in connection with the deadly clash, with one suspect, 28-year-old Olamide Ogunseyila, confessing to being a member of a cult group.
The police are continuing to investigate the roles of the remaining suspects, while efforts are underway to capture Steven Dada, also known as “Ogodo,” who is wanted in connection with the violence.
The new police chief emphasized his dedication to safeguarding the lives and property of Ondo State residents, urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.