Pastor, two others arrested for murder of UNILAG graduate, Lagos police launch manhunt for fleeing suspects
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Three individuals, including a pastor, have been arrested in connection with the alleged murder of Adedamola Ogunbode, a 2024 graduate of the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
The Lagos State Police Command confirmed the arrests while intensifying efforts to apprehend two fleeing suspects believed to have escaped to Cotonou, Benin Republic.
The arrested suspects have been identified as Pastor Whepetoji Sunday, Sherrif Adebayo, a church member, and Omolara Ajisomo. The police revealed that Sunday received ₦70,000 from the victim’s bank account, while Adebayo withdrew ₦300,000.
The two fugitives, Teniola Ajisomo and Olaoluwa Ajisomo, reportedly took ₦300,000 each before fleeing. Their mother, Omolara Ajisomo, was arrested for aiding their escape.
Ogunbode was allegedly kidnapped and murdered by the suspects, prompting outrage among students. The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), LASU Chapter, had planned a protest demanding justice for the victim.
Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Moshood Jimoh, confirmed that the case had escalated from a missing person’s report to a murder investigation. He assured the public of a thorough probe, dismissing any claims of political interference.
“The Command is fully committed to resolving the case and bringing all perpetrators to justice. Significant progress has been made, and we are working diligently to locate the victim’s body,” Jimoh stated through the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin.
To ensure a comprehensive investigation, the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). “Efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects and ensure they face the full weight of the law,” Jimoh added.
The police have urged the public, including the victim’s family and students, to remain calm and allow the investigation to proceed without interference. They assured that updates on the case would be made public in the interest of justice.
