Missing man found dead in Osun river

The body of a man who had been declared missing earlier in the week was discovered floating in the Oyile River in the Ibokun community, located in the Obokun Local Government Area of Osun State, on Wednesday.

The deceased, identified as Kehinde Ijebu, was a resident of the area and had reportedly gone missing on Tuesday, according to local residents.

Family members and neighbors who rushed to the scene confirmed the body was Kehinde’s. It is believed he may have entered the river on his own, with his recent health issues possibly playing a role in the incident.

A neighbor, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said Kehinde had been showing signs of emotional distress in recent times.

“He went missing on Tuesday, and we searched for him but couldn’t find him,” the neighbor said. “On Wednesday, we were alerted by some people who spotted a body floating in the river. Many believe he may have drowned himself due to his health condition.”

Eyewitnesses said the body was seen drifting in the river early Wednesday morning. Passersby who noticed it promptly informed the community.

“We later identified the body as Kehinde’s. The incident was reported to the police,” the neighbor added.

Following local customs, Kehinde was buried near the river around 11 a.m. on Wednesday, after traditional rites were performed.

When contacted, the spokesperson for the Osun State Police Command, SP Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the incident and stated that there were no initial signs of foul play.

“There were no visible injuries on the body. The family requested to bury him, and though we recommended an autopsy, they declined. We can’t confirm the exact burial details, but an investigation is ongoing,” Ojelabi said.