A yet-to-be-identified boyfriend of a Lagos State University (LASU) graduate, identified simply as Adija, has absconded after his girlfriend was found dead in his apartment located in the Meiran area of Lagos State. The tragic incident occurred on February 26, 2024, when Adija visited her boyfriend following his request. The discovery of her lifeless body has left her family and community in shock, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding her death.
A Family’s Worst Nightmare
According to details shared by an Instagram user, @Eyeopener, Adija’s family became concerned when she failed to pick up her calls. Knowing she had informed them of her visit to her boyfriend’s apartment, they decided to check on her. Upon arrival, they found the door locked and were forced to break in. Inside, they discovered Adija’s lifeless body on the bed, covered with a duvet. The heartbreaking scene has left her family devastated and searching for answers.
A Toxic Relationship
@Eyeopener revealed that Adija and her boyfriend had been in a relationship since her 100-level days at LASU. However, their relationship was reportedly toxic, with frequent fights and arguments. Adija, whose parents reside in Ketu, often spent weekdays at her boyfriend’s place and returned home on weekends. On the night of the incident, she received a call from her boyfriend and went to see him, unaware of the tragic fate that awaited her.
Neighbours’ Testimony
Neighbors in the apartment complex reported hearing loud noises from the couple’s apartment on the night of the incident. However, they did not intervene, as fights between the couple were a common occurrence. It was only after Adija’s family discovered her body that they realized the severity of the situation. By then, her boyfriend had already fled, leaving behind a trail of unanswered questions.
A Mother’s Anguish
Adija’s family has been left to grapple with the pain of her untimely death. A close relative of the family, identified as Tosin, revealed that Adija’s mother is a single parent who worked tirelessly to raise and educate her children. Tosin described Adija as an easy-going person and expressed deep sorrow over the tragic turn of events. She also mentioned that the boyfriend had reportedly contacted Adija’s mother, expressing his willingness to die, adding another layer of complexity to the case.
Police Investigation Underway
The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed the incident and is actively working to apprehend the suspect. Benjamin Hundeyin, the spokesperson for the command, stated that efforts are ongoing to arrest the boyfriend, who is currently at large. The police are treating the case as a priority, given the gravity of the crime and the need to bring the perpetrator to justice.
A Pattern of Gender-Based Violence
This tragic incident is not an isolated case. It highlights the pervasive issue of gender-based violence in Nigeria, where women often face abuse and violence in relationships. Just days before Adija’s death, the Ogun State Police Command launched a manhunt for a man identified as Oju, who allegedly stabbed his 36-year-old wife, Josephine Isaac, to death in the Agbure community. Josephine’s younger sister, Blessing Isaac, reported the incident to the Abigi Police Division, stating that a violent dispute between the couple led to the fatal stabbing.
The Need for Awareness and Action
These incidents underscore the urgent need for increased awareness and action to address gender-based violence in Nigeria. Many women suffer in silence, trapped in abusive relationships due to societal pressures, lack of support, and fear of retaliation. Advocacy groups and government agencies must work together to provide safe spaces for victims, enforce stricter penalties for perpetrators, and promote education on healthy relationships.
A Call for Justice
Adija’s family is demanding justice for their daughter, whose life was tragically cut short. They are calling on the police to expedite the investigation and ensure that the boyfriend is apprehended and held accountable for his actions. The family also hopes that Adija’s story will serve as a wake-up call to society, prompting a collective effort to combat gender-based violence and protect vulnerable women.
Community Reactions
The news of Adija’s death has sent shockwaves through her community and beyond. Many have taken to social media to express their outrage and sorrow, calling for an end to the cycle of violence that claims the lives of innocent women. Some have shared their own experiences with abusive relationships, highlighting the need for systemic change and better support systems for victims.
The Role of Law Enforcement
The Lagos State Police Command has a critical role to play in ensuring justice for Adija. Their ability to swiftly apprehend the suspect and conduct a thorough investigation will determine the outcome of the case. Additionally, the police must work to build trust with the community, encouraging victims of abuse to come forward and report incidents without fear of stigma or retaliation.
A Plea for Vigilance
Adija’s tragic death serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance in relationships. Friends, family members, and neighbors must be alert to signs of abuse and take action to protect those at risk. Early intervention can save lives and prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
Conclusion: A Life Remembered
Adija’s untimely death has left a void in the lives of her loved ones. As her family mourns her loss, they are determined to seek justice and ensure that her story is not forgotten. Her tragic fate highlights the urgent need for societal change, stronger legal protections, and greater awareness of gender-based violence. Adija’s memory will live on as a call to action, inspiring efforts to create a safer and more just society for all.
How You Can Help
If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, seek help immediately. Contact local authorities, support organizations, or helplines dedicated to assisting victims of domestic violence. Together, we can break the cycle of abuse and create a world where everyone can live free from fear and violence.
