Three headless, decomposing bodies were discovered floating in a river in the Odigbo community, located in the Odigbo local government area of Ondo State, on Tuesday, April 8, 2025.
Locals who visited the river made the grim discovery, with an eyewitness noting that the victims’ severed heads indicated they were brutally murdered before being discarded in the water.
Sileola, a youth leader in the community, expressed his shock upon hearing the news. “I was shocked when I first heard about it over the phone. I rushed to the scene, hoping to identify the victims through their clothing or any other means, but all efforts proved abortive,” he said.
Sileola speculated that the victims may have been killed elsewhere and their headless bodies dumped into the river. However, he pointed out that no one had reported any missing persons in the community.
The incident was reported to local security agencies, and community members were urged to report any suspicious activity. DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, confirmed the discovery in a statement on Wednesday, April 9.
“The Ondo State Police Command is deeply concerned by the recent discovery of three headless decomposing bodies by residents along a river in the Odigbo area,” the statement read.
“Preliminary observations suggest that at least one of the bodies may have been carried by the current to the location where it was discovered. Upon receiving the report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge promptly mobilized officers to the scene and initiated a coordinated response.”
Community leaders and local vigilantes have been working to assist in identifying the victims. However, since no formal report of missing persons has been made, identifying the deceased has been challenging.
The bodies have been recovered for further examination, and investigations are ongoing. The police have urged anyone with information to come forward.
“The Ondo State Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents. We assure the public that every effort is being made to uncover the circumstances surrounding this disturbing incident. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.”
