The Ondo State Police Command has launched an investigation into a tragic fire incident that claimed the lives of two young children in Ode-Aye, Okitipupa Local Government Area of the state.
The incident, which occurred on March 18, 2026, at a residence located on Olaribigbe Street in the Zion area, reportedly led to the death of Queen Ohwo, aged six, and her four-year-old sister, Everlyne Ohwo, both daughters of Mr and Mrs Peter Ohwo.
According to the command, its operatives promptly visited the scene following a distress call, where necessary documentation and photographic evidence were obtained.
The remains of the victims, said to have been severely burnt, were subsequently evacuated to a health centre in Ode-Aye, while their parents were found in a state of shock.
Preliminary findings by the police suggest that the fire may have been caused by negligence linked to cooking activities.
However, the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, has directed a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact cause and circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Divisional Police Officer in charge of Ode-Aye has been instructed to secure the scene, obtain statements from witnesses, and work in collaboration with the Federal Fire Service to ascertain the origin and extent of the inferno.
The command commiserated with the bereaved family over the loss and urged residents to exercise caution in handling fire and cooking appliances to prevent similar occurrences.
It also advised members of the public not to leave cooking unattended, especially in the presence of children, and to keep flammable materials away from open flames.
Residents were further encouraged to ensure children are not left alone around heat sources and to equip their homes with basic fire safety tools such as extinguishers or buckets of sand and water.
The police reiterated their commitment to the protection of lives and property, calling on residents to remain vigilant and safety-conscious at all times.
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The Commissioner of Police also expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his continued support and leadership, noting that the encouragement has strengthened the command’s operations in safeguarding residents across the state.
