By Kayode Olabanji, Okitipupa

The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, CP Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi, has ordered a full autopsy to determine the cause of death of Inspector Yusuf Suleiman Blessing, popularly known as BS Omo Alahaja. Suleiman, who was serving at the Akotogbo Police Division, was found dead under unclear circumstances, sparking controversy and public outcry.

According to a statement by the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Funmilayo Odunlami, the CP’s directive follows allegations of foul play by the deceased’s family and concerns raised by the public.

Full text: “Considering the outcry and allegations of foul play by the family of the late Inspector Yusuf Suleiman Blessing, as well as public concerns over his death, the Commissioner of Police has ordered that an autopsy be conducted to determine the cause of death,” Odunlami stated.

Preliminary investigations revealed that on January 27, 2025, in the evening, Inspector Suleiman was reported missing at the station.

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) immediately ordered a search party to locate him. He was last seen wearing a blue vest and green tracksuit trousers.

Two days later, the officer in charge of the Police Marine Unit reported the discovery of a body floating face down in a river. Upon closer inspection, the corpse was identified as Inspector Yusuf Suleiman. His clothing was intact, and there were no visible signs of violence, except for noticeable swelling in the centre of his head.

His remains were subsequently retrieved and deposited at the Irele General Hospital morgue.

Following the discovery, the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) took over the case. However, when an autopsy was proposed, Suleiman’s family strongly opposed it, insisting that his body be released for burial. Respecting the family’s wishes, the police covered the financial costs and transported the remains to Akure for burial.

Despite initial police findings suggesting no foul play, conflicting reports emerged, alleging that Suleiman’s body had severe burns, a cracked skull, and traces of sand, contradicting earlier claims that he had drowned. These discrepancies have fuelled suspicions and calls for a thorough investigation.

Given the inconsistencies, the Commissioner of Police has now mandated a full autopsy to establish the actual cause of death and address public concerns.

The 50-year-old officer, a native of Ikoro-Ekiti in Ekiti State, was serving in Irele Local Government Area at the time of his death. As investigations continue, the results of the autopsy are expected to provide crucial insights into the circumstances surrounding his tragic demise.