The Ondo State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation into a fire that claimed the lives of two sisters, Queen Ohwo, 6, and Everlyne Ohwo, 4, in Okitipupa Local Government Area.
The tragic incident occurred on March 18, 2026, at No. 1 Olaribigbe Street, Zion Area, Ode-Aye. The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said preliminary reports suggest the fire may have been caused by negligence during cooking activities.
The charred remains of the victims were evacuated to the Health Centre in Ode-Aye. “The parents of the deceased, present at the scene, were found in deep shock and trauma,” the statement added.
According to the police, operatives promptly visited the scene, documented the incident, and took photographs. The Divisional Police Officer in Ode-Aye has been instructed to cordon off the area, obtain witness statements, and work with the Federal Fire Service to determine the fire’s origin and extent.
CP Adebowale Lawal Psc(+), mnips, emphasized that a thorough and discreet investigation is underway to establish the exact circumstances of the tragedy.
The Command urged the public to exercise caution with fire and cooking appliances and observe key safety measures:
- Never leave cooking unattended, especially with children around.
- Keep flammable materials away from cooking areas and open flames.
- Do not leave children alone in homes with fire or heat sources.
- Keep basic fire safety tools, such as fire extinguishers or buckets of sand/water, accessible.
- Educate household members, particularly children, on fire hazards and emergency response.
The Commissioner of Police also expressed gratitude to Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, PSC(+), NPM, for his guidance and support, noting that his leadership has inspired officers to remain professional and committed to safeguarding lives and property in Ondo State.

