Ghazali Ibrahim 

Police authorities in Delta State have begun an investigation into the mysterious death of a 60-year-old American woman, Jacqueline Bolling Elton, who was found dead at the home of her Nigerian lover in Warri.

Elton, who reportedly travelled from the United States to visit her 39-year-old partner, Alawode Olaide, allegedly fell ill on September 29 and was rushed to a private hospital in Otokutu, near Warri. She was later confirmed dead on arrival at the Central Hospital, Warri.

Sources familiar with the case said the circumstances surrounding Elton’s death have raised concerns, prompting the police to detain Olaide for questioning.

Counterinsurgency expert Zagazola Makama confirmed the development, noting that an investigation is ongoing to determine whether foul play was involved.

The tragic incident has drawn widespread attention both locally and abroad, especially as cross-border relationships involving foreign nationals continue to stir debate on safety, trust, and exploitation.

Residents of Warri described the news as “disturbing,” with many expressing sadness over the woman’s sudden death.

Friends and family of the deceased are reportedly liaising with U.S. authorities to ensure a thorough probe and the repatriation of her remains.

When BlackBox Nigeria exclusively reached out to the force PRO, Bright Edafe, he hung up the call by saying, “I’ll call you back”. After some hours of waiting, when tried again, the line has been switched off. While there’s no formal information from police on their investigations, attempt to confirm from the PRO proved abortive.

While the cause of death remains unclear, investigators are said to be awaiting an autopsy report to determine what led to the fatal incident.