A prominent hotelier in Sapele, Delta State, Emekeme Joseph, widely known as Semikolo, has tragically passed away after allegedly being assaulted by his two sons. The chairman of Covenant Suites, renowned for his successful hotel chain and active role as a church deacon, reportedly fell ill following the assault, which was said to be prompted by accusations of infidelity.
According to reports, the hotelier’s sons discovered him in the company of a woman they believed to be his “side chick.” They allegedly demanded a bribe of one million naira from their father, threatening to inform their mother, who was on vacation in the United States at the time. Refusing to succumb to blackmail, the deceased faced further confrontation when his sons reported the incident to their mother upon her return.
On a subsequent day, the hotelier visited his wife’s Coca-Cola depot, where his sons spotted him and chased him off the premises. Incensed by this encounter, Semikolo returned home and took control of his sons’ car keys. In response, the sons physically assaulted him with punches and kicks. In the midst of the altercation, the father contacted the police, but the situation escalated when the boys reportedly inflicted a head injury on one of the officers.
Law enforcement eventually apprehended the sons, while the hotelier was rushed to the hospital. However, his condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to his transfer to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, where he fought for his life. Tragically, his wife, who had flown back to Nigeria, allegedly disregarded the doctor’s advice and brought her husband home, where he eventually succumbed to his injuries.
The incident has sent shockwaves throughout the community, as a well-known and respected figure has lost his life in such a distressing manner. The news has elicited widespread disbelief and sorrow.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing and the deceased hotelier’s wife reportedly facilitated the release of their sons from police custody. The circumstances surrounding the case have sparked outrage and raised questions about the breakdown of family relationships and the tragic consequences that can result.
