Tragedy strikes in Ondo as blaze destroys house, claiming lives of two young siblings

A devastating fire at a family residence in Ode-Aye, Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, has resulted in the tragic loss of two young lives, with the victims being identified as six-year-old Queen Ohwo and her four-year-old sister Everlyne Ohwo, daughters of Mr and Mrs Ohwo Peter.

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The fire occurred on March 18, 2026, at the family home, located at No. 1 Olaribigbe Street, Zion Area, prompting a swift response from the authorities, with the Ondo State Police Command initiating a full-scale investigation into the incident.

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A statement signed by Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, revealed that the children’s remains, which were severely burnt, were evacuated to the Health Centre in Ode-Aye, while their parents were found to be in a state of deep shock and trauma.

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Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire may have been caused by negligence during cooking activities, although the exact cause and circumstances surrounding the incident are yet to be determined.

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CP Adebowale Lawal has ordered a thorough and discreet investigation into the incident, with the Divisional Police Officer in Ode-Aye instructed to cordon off the scene, obtain statements from relevant witnesses, and collaborate with the Federal Fire Services to determine the extent and origin of the fire.

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The Police Command has expressed condolences to the bereaved family and urged the public to exercise caution, highlighting key fire safety measures such as never leaving cooking unattended, keeping flammable materials away from cooking areas and open flames, and ensuring children are not left alone in homes where fire or heat sources are in use.

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Additional safety measures emphasized by the Police Command include having basic fire safety tools readily available, such as fire extinguishers or buckets of sand/water, and educating household members, especially children, on fire hazards and emergency response.

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CP Lawal also took the opportunity to thank the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for his unwavering support, morale-boosting leadership, and invaluable guidance, noting that the IGP’s consistent encouragement and strategic direction have inspired officers and men of the Command to remain steadfast, professional, and committed to duty.

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The support from the Inspector-General of Police has greatly strengthened the security of lives and property of the residents of Ondo State, according to the statement, which concluded by emphasizing the importance of the IGP’s leadership in maintaining security in the state.