The quiet Ogale community in Eleme, Rivers State, has been plunged into mourning following the shocking and tragic discovery of an entire family found dead in their home. The incident, which occurred over the weekend, has left residents in a state of disbelief and sorrow.
A Black Sunday in Ogale
The heartbreaking event unfolded on Sunday, January 11, 2026. According to reports, the family, which had retired to bed on the night of Saturday, January 10, failed to wake up the following morning. The doors to their room were found locked from the inside, prompting alarm.
The tragedy was first reported by a Facebook user, Destiny John, who lamented the sudden loss. "A black Sunday indeed six died on the spot," John wrote. The deceased were identified as Theophilus Obele, 49; his wife, Eunice Obele, 35; and their children: Saka Obele, 18; Peace Obele, 14; and Nyimenka Obele, 7. A 25-year-old male relative, Abel Nwaka, was also among the victims.
Sources indicated that the family had concluded plans to return to Port Harcourt after the holiday period before the tragic incident occurred.
Police Launch Investigation, Point to Generator Fumes
The Rivers State Police Command swiftly launched an investigation into the mysterious deaths. Police spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed that the incident was reported through a distress call from one Godwin Ogosu of Ogale.
Operatives from the Eleme Police Division were mobilised to the scene. Upon forcing open the locked room, they discovered the six lifeless bodies. The police have officially classified the case as a Sudden and Unnatural Death (SUD).
In a preliminary finding, the police pointed to a possible cause. A generator was found running in the parlour of the house, leading to a strong suspicion of carbon monoxide poisoning from generator fume inhalation. The toxic, odourless gas is a silent killer often associated with improperly ventilated generators in residential areas.
Community in Shock as Questions Linger
The Eleme community remains in a state of profound shock. The notion that a seemingly healthy family of six could perish overnight without any apparent prior illness has stirred deep anxiety and grief among neighbours and relatives.
While the police investigation continues to establish the definitive cause of death, this tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by generator usage. It highlights a critical public safety issue prevalent in many parts of Nigeria, where unstable power supply forces reliance on alternative electricity sources.
The police have urged the public to always ensure proper ventilation when operating generators and to avoid placing them in enclosed spaces like living rooms or near windows to prevent such devastating accidents.
