The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed that former Ondo State governorship candidate Bamidele Akingboye was murdered, marking a significant escalation in a case that has drawn national attention and raised serious questions about intra-family conflict, financial crimes, and homicide investigation protocols.
Autopsy and Toxicology Point to Criminal Homicide
Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olorundare Jimoh, disclosed to LegalObserver that the police have received both autopsy and toxicology reports, conclusively ruling the death a homicide. The reports, finalized on September 11, provided sufficient grounds for investigators to re-arrest and detain seven members of the Akingboye family, previously questioned in connection with the death.
The police are now awaiting legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP), which will determine the nature of the charges to be filed and guide the next procedural steps.
Investigators from the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Yaba, had earlier detained nine close family members and domestic aides. A key focus of the probe is a mysterious ₦50 million transfer from the deceased politician’s bank account, allegedly shared among certain immediate family members shortly after his death.
Sources within the SCID confirmed that the financial irregularities triggered “heightened suspicion” and positioned the family circle as persons of interest.
Akingboye reportedly died on September 3rd under unclear circumstances, with family members claiming his body was found at the backyard of his Lagos residence in Victoria Garden City. His eldest son, Samuel Akingboye, based in Ondo State, filed an official complaint urging a comprehensive investigation.
CP Jimoh reaffirmed the command’s commitment to ensuring accountability:
“With the toxicology findings concluded, we await advice from the DPP so prosecution can begin against anyone found culpable of murder.”
The police chief also emphasized that the case would be pursued “to its legal conclusion,” regardless of whoever is implicated.
Some family members earlier spoke in an exclusive crime-scene interview, insisting they expected a professional and unbiased investigation. However, investigators note internal contradictions in family statements, further complicating the case.
The Akingboye case now stands as a critical test of homicide investigation standards, financial-crime detection, and prosecutorial diligence within Lagos State. If charges are approved by the DPP, the matter will likely open a multi-count prosecution spanning:
Murder
Conspiracy
Financial fraud
Misappropriation
Accessory liability
Legal analysts note that the case could set important precedents regarding family-involved homicide and post-mortem financial misconduct.
