A somber event meant to commemorate the passing of a loved one turned into a scene of tragedy as a dispute between relatives culminated in the untimely death of a 37-year-old man, Adebayo Gbenro, in the Ijemo-Agbadu area of Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The incident occurred at approximately 7:30 p.m. during preparations for their late father’s burial ceremony at their family residence. Allegedly, a heated argument erupted between the deceased and another relative identified as Okekenu Gbadebo.
Sources familiar with the matter, who spoke on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the case, revealed that Gbadebo delivered a fatal punch to Gbenro’s chest during the altercation. As a result, Gbenro collapsed, and despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries.
The unexpected turn of events cast a pall over the gathering, throwing the family into disarray on the eve of the scheduled burial. Police authorities swiftly responded to the incident, with Gbadebo promptly apprehended following the report filed at the Oke-Itoku Divisional Police Headquarters.
Confirming the incident, Omolola Odutola, the spokesperson for the Ogun State Police Command, disclosed that the altercation occurred between relatives amidst the funeral preparations. Gbadebo’s sudden act of violence led to the tragic demise of Gbenro, who was pronounced dead upon arrival at Ijaye General Hospital.
As investigations into the circumstances surrounding the altercation continue, the authorities have taken Gbadebo into custody, and the case is set to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further inquiry.