Two Feared Dead as Police Investigate Swimming Pool Incident at Akungba Hotel
The Ondo State Police Command has commenced a full investigation into a swimming pool incident at a hotel in Akungba-Akoko that claimed the lives of two young men during a poolside event organized for newly matriculated students.
The incident occurred on January 29, 2026, at Unibercity Lounge and Hotel, Akungba-Akoko, in Akoko South West Local Government Area of the state. According to police sources, the tragedy was reported to the Akungba Divisional Police Headquarters by the hotel’s pool manager, identified as Shittu.
Police said that at about 8:00 p.m. on the same day, a 19-year-old male, Adegbola Blessing, was found unconscious inside the hotel’s swimming pool during the event. He was reportedly rescued, given first aid, and later regained consciousness before being taken home by his friends.
However, shortly after, another guest, Oludere Opeyemi, 22, was also discovered unconscious in the same swimming pool. He was immediately rescued and rushed to the State Hospital in Ikare-Akoko, where he was confirmed dead by medical personnel.
Following the report, operatives of the Akungba Divisional Police Station were deployed to the hotel to begin preliminary investigations. The hotel manager, Ayomide Badejo, and the pool manager were invited for questioning as part of the initial inquiry.
Police authorities further disclosed that in the early hours of January 30, 2026, at about 7:00 a.m., Adegbola Blessing, who had earlier been rescued alive, was reported to have died. His death prompted the transfer of the case to the Command’s Monitoring Unit for a more discreet and comprehensive investigation.
The bodies of both deceased persons have since been deposited at the State Hospital, Ikare-Akoko morgue for preservation and autopsy, as investigations continue.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, CP Adebowale Lawal, advised hotel owners and operators across the state to strengthen safety measures within their facilities, particularly around swimming pool areas. He emphasized the need for proper supervision, functional safety equipment, and strict compliance with existing safety regulations to prevent similar incidents.
The police boss assured members of the public that the command is committed to unraveling the circumstances surrounding the deaths and ensuring that anyone found culpable is brought to justice. He also urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation as investigations progress.
The Ondo State Police Command expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for his leadership and continued support, noting that ongoing reforms and technological initiatives have improved policing efficiency and public safety in the state.
