Akoko, Ondo – The Ondo State Police Command has apprehended a 34-year-old bricklayer, Elela Monday, for allegedly killing his 14-year-old son, Tope Elela, over his involvement in criminal activities.
The incident occurred in Ajowa Akoko, Akoko North-West Local Government Area.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Wilfred Afolabi, revealed the case during a press briefing at the command headquarters in Akure on Sunday, 12 January 2025.
According to CP Afolabi, the police received a tip-off on 30 December that the suspect had buried his son in a shallow grave under a banana tree behind his residence after the alleged killing.
During interrogation, Elela reportedly confessed that his son’s actions, including housebreaking and theft, were causing embarrassment to the family.
He admitted to burying the boy with the knowledge of his wife, who has since fled with their other children following his arrest.
Speaking to journalists, Elela claimed the boy’s death was unintentional. “I only beat him after he escaped from the custody of the State Security Network, Amotekun. I did not know he would die,” he said.
The suspect further disclosed that he had often handed his son over to Amotekun or vigilante groups whenever he was caught engaging in theft or related crimes.
He recounted that after disciplining Tope on the night of his death, the family went to sleep, only to discover his lifeless body the next morning.
The police confirmed that investigations are ongoing, and the suspect will be charged accordingly.