By Our Reporter
The Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Barr. Wale Ojo-Lanre, has described the hotel linked to the recent fatal incident in Ikere-Ekiti as illegal, saying it failed to comply with mandatory regulatory requirements.
The incident resulted in the deaths of three young persons two recent graduates and a student. Ojo-Lanre described the development as sad, tragic and unfortunate and extended condolences to the bereaved families.
He disclosed that the facility, identified as Emirates Crown Hotel, was not registered with the Bureau of Tourism Development and is not affiliated with any recognized hotel association, in violation of laws guiding hospitality operations in the state.
“Every hotel operating in Ekiti State must register with the Bureau of Tourism Development and belong to a recognized association. This particular hotel did not comply. That means it is operating illegally,” Ojo-Lanre said.
He explained that the regulatory framework is designed to enforce operational standards, ensure effective monitoring, and uphold the duty of care owed to guests by hospitality operators.
According to the DG, the matter is currently before a court and authorities will avoid actions that could prejudice judicial proceedings. He confirmed that the court has ordered the closure of the facility.
“It is now a criminal matter within the jurisdiction of the court. We must avoid anything that could be sub judice. After the legal process, we will take necessary administrative steps, including profiling the hotel,” he said.
Ojo-Lanre warned other operators in the state to comply fully with registration and operational guidelines, stating that the government would not tolerate illegal businesses.
He added that despite the incident, Ekiti State remains safe for tourists, citing strengthened security measures and effective monitoring across tourism corridors.
“This tragedy is a lesson. Laws are meant to protect lives. Any operator who fails to comply is putting people at risk and will face the consequences,” he said.
