The anticipated celebration of 28-year-old Adedamola Ogunbode, a recent graduate of Lagos State University (LASU), at the upcoming convocation ceremony has been tragically overshadowed by his untimely death. Allegations have surfaced implicating a local pastor in his murder, leading to widespread outrage and demands for justice.
Disappearance and Initial Investigations
On January 16, 2025, Adedamola, who had completed his degree in Political Science Education in 2024 and was the CEO of Horlar Edu Consultancy operating on the LASU campus, went missing. His last known communication was with his girlfriend, during which he mentioned being near the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) Ileri Oluwa Parish, LASU 2, and that he would call her back. However, he never did.
Concerned by his sudden disappearance, his girlfriend reported the matter to the police, leading to an investigation that initially focused on the church premises. The church’s shepherd, Superintendent Evangelist Whepetoji Babaniyeh, denied any knowledge of Adedamola’s whereabouts at that time.
Financial Transactions Uncovered
As the investigation progressed, detectives obtained Adedamola’s bank statements, revealing that ₦1.5 million had been transferred from his account on the day he went missing. Further scrutiny traced portions of this sum to the bank accounts of Evangelist Babaniyeh and his daughter. When confronted with this evidence, Babaniyeh initially denied receiving the funds but later claimed they were intended as a thanksgiving offering.
Discovery of the Body and Arrest
The case took a grim turn when Adedamola’s mutilated body was discovered buried near the church premises. Reports indicate that the burial was supervised by Evangelist Babaniyeh himself, deepening suspicions of ritualistic practices. Additionally, a gun and an axe were reportedly recovered from the scene.
Following these revelations, Evangelist Babaniyeh was arrested by the Lagos State Police Command for further investigation into his involvement in the alleged murder.
University and Community Reactions
The management of LASU expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss of Adedamola. In an official statement, they condemned the senseless act of violence and called for swift action by security agencies to ensure that those responsible face justice. The university community was urged to remain calm and vigilant, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to student safety.
This incident has also sparked broader concerns about the prevalence of ritualistic killings in Nigeria. Observers note that such practices, often driven by a misguided quest for wealth, have become alarmingly common, with religious institutions occasionally implicated. The tragic death of Adedamola serves as a stark reminder of the need for societal introspection and decisive action against such heinous acts.
Ongoing Investigations
As investigations continue, the police have intensified efforts to uncover all facets of the case and ensure that justice is served. The community, alongside Adedamola’s family and friends, awaits the outcome, hoping for accountability and measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
This incident underscores the critical need for vigilance, ethical conduct, and the protection of innocent lives within communities.
