Tension enveloped the Odigbo community in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State on Monday evening after residents lynched a 26-year-old man, identified simply as Daniel, for allegedly killing and beheading his younger brother, Emmanuel.
The siblings, sons of a respected police officer in the community, had reportedly left home together for the nearby Origbara River—a secluded area popular with locals—before the grisly incident occurred.
According to eyewitnesses, Daniel allegedly lured his 15-year-old brother to the riverbank, where he murdered and beheaded him. His attempt to conceal the severed head in a bag was foiled by a passerby who raised the alarm.
Roland Akinkunmi, a resident, said the community was thrown into chaos when Daniel was caught red-handed. “I saw Daniel holding a human head. At first I didn’t realize it was his brother’s until people began screaming. Everyone is still in shock. We don’t know what came over him,” he said.
Witnesses also recounted that the brothers had a minor disagreement earlier in the day, but no one imagined it would escalate into such a horrific act. Speculations have emerged that the killing may be linked to ritual motives, although this remains unconfirmed.
Furious at the gruesome killing, enraged residents descended on Daniel and beat him severely before handing him over to authorities. He was confirmed dead at a hospital shortly after.
Spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, SP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the incident and the suspect’s death. He said the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, has ordered a full investigation.
“The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for thorough and discreet investigation,” Ayanlade said. “The Command assures the public that no stone will be left unturned in unravelling the circumstances behind this tragic event.”
The chilling incident has left Odigbo residents in disbelief, as the peaceful agrarian town struggles to come to terms with a fratricide that has shaken its core.
