THE Lagos State Police Command has confirmed that former governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Ondo State, Bamidele Akingboye, was murdered, following the conclusion of an autopsy and toxicology analysis.
Speaking to News Point Nigeria, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olorundare Jimoh, revealed that the police had received the full autopsy report and were now prepared to proceed with prosecution as soon as legal advice is issued by the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP).
According to him, the toxicology report, completed on September 11, provided the breakthrough investigators needed leading to the re-arrest and detention of seven out of the fourteen family members earlier questioned in connection with the case.
Earlier in the investigation, detectives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Yaba, arrested and interrogated nine close family members and aides. The police later expanded the probe to include 14 individuals, but recent forensic findings prompted the further detention of seven.
One major red flag uncovered by detectives was a ₦50 million transfer from the deceased’s account, allegedly carried out by some immediate family members shortly after his death.
“We have concluded the toxicology findings,” CP Jimoh said. “We now await advice from the DPP so that prosecution can begin against anyone found culpable of murder.”
Akingboye, who contested the 2024 Ondo governorship election, died under suspicious circumstances on September 3. According to family members, his body was discovered in the backyard of his Victoria Garden City (VGC), Lagos residence.
The alarm was first raised by his son, Samuel Akingboye, who lives in Ondo State. Samuel notified the police and demanded a comprehensive investigation to uncover what he repeatedly described as a “mysterious” and “unnatural” death.
Before the autopsy results were released, some family members interviewed by News Point Nigeria had expressed confidence in the police investigation, emphasizing their desire to know what truly happened to the late politician.
CP Jimoh reaffirmed that the command would pursue the case to its logical conclusion.
“Anyone found responsible will face the law. This is a murder case, and we will not compromise,” he said.
Akingboye’s death was first confirmed on September 3 in a statement issued by his aide, Oyeniyi Iwakun. The statement indicated that the late SDP chieftain died at his VGC residence.
“Known for his unwavering integrity, humility, and generosity, Akingboye left an indelible mark as a successful businessman and mentor to many,” the statement read.
He is survived by wives, children, grandchildren, and siblings. The family requested privacy while indicating that burial arrangements would be announced later.
Akingboye was the SDP candidate in the November 2024 Ondo governorship election. He lost to the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate and incumbent governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
After the election, Akingboye and the SDP rejected the results, alleging widespread irregularities. He accused security operatives of harassing SDP agents at polling units and intimidating voters.
He also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cancel the poll.
With the autopsy officially confirming homicide and fresh arrests underway, the case has now entered a decisive phase. The police say prosecution will begin immediately once the DPP concludes its legal review.
Akingboye’s death, once shrouded in confusion, has now become an active murder investigation with close family members and aides at the center of the unfolding drama.