The 34-year-old father, Monday Elela, has been arrested by Ondo State Police Command for allegedly killing his 14-year-old son, Tope, following accusations of stealing.
Elela, a bricklayer and farmer, is accused of burying his son in a shallow grave in their home in Ajowa-Akoko, Akoko North West Local Government Area of the state. His wife, who was reportedly complicit, is currently on the run.
During police interrogation at the state headquarters in Akure, Elela claimed he only beat his son after Tope escaped from the custody of the Amotekun Corps. He stated that Tope had been a consistent source of embarrassment due to repeated arrests and illegal activities.
Elela revealed that following Tope’s escape from custody, they spanked him for his wrongdoings, unaware that he was already injured. After spurring his punishment, Tope went to sleep but was found dead the next morning, leading to his burial in their backyard.