Ondo Businessman, Tolufe, Dies in Suspected Suicide at Office

A 46-year-old businessman in Ondo State, Akinbolusere Kayode, popularly known as Tolufe, has died in what the police described as a suspected suicide at his office in Igba town.

Kayode, who reportedly owned Esther Estate in the state, was said to have died on Thursday, October 29, 2026, after allegedly ingesting a poisonous substance.

Before his death, the businessman reportedly recorded a video in which he spoke about his personal and business struggles and announced his decision to bequeath his properties to his wife, Akinbolusere Esther, and their three children, who are based in Canada.

In the video, Kayode said he made the decision voluntarily and without pressure from anyone. He also acknowledged his wife’s support throughout the years, particularly when he was starting his business and working as a barber.

He reportedly said he began his business from scratch and described his wife as someone who stood by him during difficult times.

“My wife knew how I suffered. She didn’t trouble me. I will all my properties to my wife, Akinbolusere Esther, who hails from Ekiti, and my three children who are in Canada,” he said.

He also expressed regret over what he described as his own carelessness, which he believed had contributed to the difficulties he faced.

Confirming the incident in a statement on Friday, the Ondo State Police Command said it had commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the businessman’s death.

The statement, issued by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, identified the deceased as a 46-year-old resident of Road 7, Housing Estate, Igba.

According to the police, information about the incident was received from members of the public, prompting operatives attached to the Bolorunduro Division to visit the scene.

The officers reportedly recovered two empty bottles suspected to have contained insecticide from a nearby bush.

The police also said preliminary findings indicated that Kayode had recorded a video before his death, in which he spoke about his personal struggles. The footage has since circulated on social media.

His remains were subsequently taken to the morgue at the State Hospital for preservation and further examination.

The command added that no visible marks of violence were observed on his body during the initial examination.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Felix Ohagwu, has ordered a thorough investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine the actual cause of death.

The police commissioner also urged members of the public to avoid speculation while the investigation is ongoing.

He encouraged people experiencing emotional distress, marital difficulties or other personal challenges to seek timely support and assistance.