Police in Ondo State have arrested three persons in connection with the death of a senior Cherubim and Seraphim Church leader, Elder Omotayo Ezekiel Fajana, whose body was discovered in a hotel room in Akungba-Akoko, Akoko South-West Local Government Area.

The 71-year-old cleric had travelled to the town for a church programme where he was scheduled to be installed as the Head Prayer Warrior Father (Baba Aladura) of Ogo Orimolade C&S Church, Okerigbo.

Confirming the incident on Monday 23 June 2026, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said the command had launched a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the death.

“The command has commenced a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of a 71-year-old church leader, Mr Omotayo Ezekiel Fajana, whose body was discovered under suspicious circumstances in Akungba-Akoko,” DSP Jimoh stated.

He revealed that three suspects are currently in police custody assisting investigators. Preliminary findings have focused on the handling of the deceased’s body, which was reportedly moved to a mortuary in Ikare-Akoko without the required medical certification of death.

The incident was first reported at the Akungba Police Division on Saturday by Mr Olaseni Sunday Olaoluwa, a nephew of the deceased, who said his uncle had gone to Akungba-Akoko specifically for the church installation programme.

Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu, has directed a comprehensive and discreet probe into the matter, with assurances that anyone found culpable will be prosecuted.

“The Commissioner of Police assures members of the public that the command will leave no stone unturned in uncovering the facts surrounding the incident,” DSP Jimoh added.

The police have appealed for calm while investigations continue, as they work to establish the actual cause of death and determine whether any criminal elements were involved.

The case has sent shockwaves through the local Christian community, particularly among Cherubim and Seraphim members who were preparing to celebrate the late elder’s new role.