By Our Correspondent

National News – Tragedy has struck the quiet community of Ode-Aye in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State after two young siblings were killed in a devastating house fire that destroyed part of their family residence.

The heartbreaking incident, which occurred on March 18, has left residents shocked and the victims’ parents overwhelmed with grief.

The victims, identified as six-year-old Queen Ohwo and four-year-old Everlyne Ohwo, were reportedly trapped inside the family home when the fire broke out at their residence located at 1 Olaribigbe Street, Zion Area, Ode-Aye.

Neighbours said the flames spread rapidly, leaving little time for rescue efforts before the children were caught in the inferno.

Authorities confirmed that the remains of the children were later recovered from the scene after the fire was put out.

The incident has sparked sadness across the community, where residents described the loss as devastating for the family and the neighbourhood.

The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the tragedy and said officers visited the scene shortly after the incident to begin preliminary investigations and document evidence.

According to the command’s spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh, the severely burnt remains of the children were evacuated and deposited at a health facility in the area.

Jimoh explained that early findings suggested the fire might have been caused by negligence during cooking activities, though investigators are still working to determine the exact circumstances that triggered the blaze.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Adebowale Lawal, has ordered a full and discreet investigation into the incident.

Police authorities have also instructed the Divisional Police Officer in Ode-Aye to secure the area, gather statements from witnesses, and work closely with the Federal Fire Service to determine the origin and extent of the fire.

Meanwhile, the police command has extended condolences to the bereaved parents and urged members of the public to exercise caution when handling fire and cooking appliances.

Officials emphasized the importance of safety awareness in homes to prevent similar tragedies.

Community leaders and residents have also called for increased fire safety education to reduce avoidable accidents and protect families across the region.