In a deeply unsettling incident that has sent shockwaves through the Ilorin community in Kwara State, a 29-year-old Islamic cleric, Mohammed Bello, has been arrested for the alleged murder and dismemberment of a 25-year-old woman, Hafsoh Lawal. The two reportedly met on Facebook, and their online interaction tragically culminated in a gruesome crime. This article delves into the details of the case, the suspect’s claims, the victim’s family’s response, and the ongoing police investigation.
The Disappearance of Hafsoh Lawal
Hafsoh Lawal, a private school teacher and final-year student at the Kwara State College of Education, was last seen on February 10, 2025. She had attended a friend’s naming ceremony and, during the event, received a phone call. Informing her friends that she was stepping out to meet someone, she left the ceremony but never returned. Concerned about her sudden disappearance, her family reported her missing to the local police station the following day.
Arrest of Mohammed Bello
Utilizing advanced tracking methods, the police traced the last call made to Hafsoh’s phone, leading them to Mohammed Bello, an Islamic cleric residing in the Offa-Garage area of Ilorin. Upon his arrest, Bello initially denied any involvement in Hafsoh’s disappearance. However, a thorough search of his residence revealed a horrifying scene: Hafsoh’s dismembered body parts were found concealed within the premises, alongside various incriminating items.
Suspect’s Account
In an interrogation video that has since circulated widely, Bello provided his version of events. Speaking in Yoruba, he stated, “My name is Mohammed. I’m a Muslim cleric. I’m about to gain admission into KWASU. The girl is Hafsoh. She is my girlfriend. I met her on Facebook. I didn’t kill her. I am just a victim of circumstance.” He further alleged that upon her arrival at his residence, Hafsoh mentioned she was hungry. Bello claimed he went out to purchase food for her, and upon his return, found her gasping for breath. He asserted that she had previously informed him of her asthmatic condition. In a state of panic, Bello admitted to dismembering her body and disposing of the parts at a public refuse dump, stating he couldn’t think of a better way to handle the situation.
Family’s Rebuttal
Contradicting Bello’s claims, Hafsoh’s family firmly stated that she had no history of asthma. A close family friend, Lawyer Odedele, emphasized that Hafsoh had actively participated in cooking during the naming ceremony, an activity unlikely for someone with a severe respiratory condition. Odedele remarked, “Though I am not aware of her health history, even if she died of asthma as claimed by the suspect, was he supposed to have dismembered her body? She was part of those who cooked at her friend’s naming ceremony before she left to visit the suspect. Would someone who is asthmatic have participated in the cooking? He is just making excuses.”
Police Investigation
The Kwara State Police Command has launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident. The command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, confirmed the arrest and the recovery of critical evidence from Bello’s residence. In a statement, she detailed the items found, including two mobile phones and slippers belonging to the deceased, dismembered body parts, a plastic bottle containing the victim’s blood, a cutlass, a knife, an axe, a wooden box of black soap, a sack containing charms, and a center table used in the act. SP Ejire-Adeyemi stated, “The suspect, Mohammed A. Bello, has confessed to the crime with the intent to do ‘oshole/ajoo ówò’ (money rituals).” The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Ilorin for further investigation and subsequent prosecution.
Community Reaction
The gruesome nature of the crime has elicited widespread outrage and sorrow within the Ilorin community and beyond. Many are grappling with the reality of such an atrocity occurring within their midst. Community leaders and residents have called for justice to be served promptly and have urged the public to exercise caution in their online interactions.
Safety in Online Interactions
This tragic incident underscores the potential dangers associated with forming relationships through social media platforms. While many online connections are genuine and lead to meaningful relationships, there is an inherent risk when meeting individuals without prior personal acquaintance. Safety experts advise the following precautions:
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Verify Identities: Before meeting someone from an online platform, ensure you have verified their identity through video calls or mutual acquaintances.
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Public Meetings: Always arrange initial meetings in public places, such as cafes or parks, where there are other people around.
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Inform Loved Ones: Let friends or family members know about your plans, including who you’re meeting, where, and at what time.
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Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or uncomfortable, prioritize your safety and remove yourself from the situation.
Conclusion
The heart-wrenching death of Hafsoh Lawal serves as a stark reminder of the potential perils lurking in online interactions. As the investigation unfolds, the community’s hope rests on the justice system to ensure that the perpetrator faces the full weight of the law. In the meantime, it is imperative for individuals to exercise vigilance and prioritize personal safety when forming new connections, both online and offline.
