ABUJA, Nigeria — The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) has called for a thorough investigation into the tragic and suspicious death of Elder Omotayo Ezekiel Fajana, a senior leader of the Cherubim and Seraphim (C&S) Church, whose body was discovered in a hotel room in Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Director-General of NTDA, Mr. Ola Awakan, expressed deep concern over the circumstances surrounding the incident, warning that it raises serious questions about safety standards in Nigeria’s hospitality sector.
“Such events undermine public confidence in the hospitality sector and cannot be tolerated,” Awakan said.
He extended condolences to the family of the deceased, the C&S Church, and the Akungba-Akoko community, while urging law enforcement agencies to ensure a transparent and professional probe into the case.
The NTDA boss specifically cited concerns over reports of the handling of the deceased’s remains without proper medical certification, as well as allegations of suspicious activity linked to the incident.
While commending the Ondo State Police Command for arresting three suspects in connection with the case, Awakan stressed the need to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the death.
“We urge law enforcement to conduct a thorough, transparent, and professional probe. We must uncover the full circumstances of this death and expose any potential lapses or complicity,” he stated.
Awakan emphasized that swift justice is essential to restore public confidence and deter negligence or criminal conduct within the hospitality industry.
He also reassured Nigerians that guest safety remains a top priority for the Authority, noting that the NTDA is collaborating with security agencies to strengthen oversight of hotels and tourism facilities nationwide.
As part of its response, the Authority said it would reactivate nationwide monitoring and enforcement of safety standards across hospitality establishments in collaboration with state governments.
The NTDA reiterated its commitment to working with hotel operators, law enforcement agencies, and community stakeholders to ensure a safe and secure environment for tourists and residents alike.
