The disappearance and suspected murder of Adedamola Ogunbode, a recent graduate of Lagos State University (LASU), has sparked a complex investigation by the Lagos State Police Command, leading to the arrest of three individuals and an ongoing search for five others. The case, initially reported as a missing person, took a grim turn as evidence pointed towards foul play. Ogunbode, a 2024 graduate of Political Science Education, vanished on January 16, 2025, fueling speculation and anxiety amongst his family, friends, and the student community. The ensuing investigation unveiled suspicious financial transactions involving Ogunbode’s bank account, which became a crucial lead for the authorities.
The Lagos State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh, has made significant strides in unraveling the circumstances surrounding Ogunbode’s disappearance. Three individuals have been apprehended in connection with the case, each playing a distinct role in the alleged crime. Whepetoji Sunday, a pastor, is implicated for receiving ₦70,000 from the victim’s account, while Sheriff Adebayo, a member of Sunday’s congregation, allegedly received ₦300,000. Omolara Ajisomo, another suspect, is accused of aiding her children, Teniola and Olaoluwa Ajisomo, in fleeing to Cotonou, Benin Republic, after each allegedly received ₦300,000 from Ogunbode’s account. These arrests represent a crucial step in the investigation, providing potential insights into the events leading up to Ogunbode’s disappearance.
The investigation has intensified with the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) taking over the case to ensure a more comprehensive and thorough probe. This decision follows concerns raised by the student community, particularly the National Association of Nigerian Students Joint Campus Council (NANS JCC), who planned a protest over the handling of the investigation. The Commissioner of Police has assured the public, and particularly the students, of the command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring justice for Adedamola Ogunbode. He has emphasized that the investigation will be conducted impartially and without any political interference, adhering to the principles of justice and fairness.
The police are pursuing multiple lines of inquiry in their ongoing investigation. A primary focus is locating Ogunbode’s body, which is believed to be crucial in determining the exact cause of death and providing concrete evidence against the suspects. The recovery of the body would not only offer closure to the grieving family but also provide vital forensic evidence that could solidify the case against those involved. The police are also actively pursuing the five remaining suspects who are currently at large. Their apprehension is considered critical to piecing together the full narrative of the events leading to Ogunbode’s tragic fate.
The police have assured the public that they will leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of justice. They are committed to a transparent investigation, promising to release their findings to the public in due course. This commitment to transparency is vital in maintaining public trust and ensuring accountability in the handling of this sensitive case. The police are also appealing for public cooperation, urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. Community involvement and information sharing can be instrumental in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
The tragic case of Adedamola Ogunbode highlights the importance of a thorough and impartial investigation in cases of missing persons and suspected homicides. The Lagos State Police Command’s efforts, including the arrests made and the ongoing search for the remaining suspects, demonstrate their dedication to uncovering the truth and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. The commitment to transparency and public engagement further underscores the importance of community involvement in pursuing justice and providing closure to the grieving family and friends of Adedamola Ogunbode. The investigation continues, and the authorities remain resolute in their pursuit of justice, leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to bring the perpetrators to book.
