By Society Assistant Editor
Ninolowo Gbamboye
The Lagos State Police Command has commenced a full forensic investigation into the sudden and controversial death of Mr. Bamidele Akingboye, a former governorship candidate in Ondo State.
The directive was given by the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olohundare Jimoh, following the circulation of unsettling images of the deceased online. The photographs, which appeared to show bruises and marks on Akingboye’s head, have raised suspicions that his death may not have been natural, contrary to earlier claims that he died peacefully at his residence in Victoria Garden City (VGC), Lagos, last Wednesday.
Forensic Team Moves In
In an official statement released on Sunday via the command’s verified X handle, @LagosPoliceNG, the Commissioner ordered the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to discreetly take charge of the case.
According to the police, detectives and forensic experts have already visited the late politician’s residence, using the command’s Crime Scene Investigation vehicle and other specialised equipment to collect evidence. The entire property has since been cordoned off to preserve the integrity of the scene.
“The Commissioner has instructed the Deputy Commissioner of Police, SCID, to conduct a detailed and transparent inquiry into the matter,” the statement read in part.
Public Outcry and Human Rights Advocates’ Demand
The disturbing images of Akingboye’s body sparked widespread outrage across social media, with many Nigerians insisting that the matter should not be swept under the carpet. Several human rights groups have called for an investigation that is not only thorough but also credible enough to restore public confidence in law enforcement institutions.
Some activists argue that the case has the potential to become a watershed moment for the Nigerian Police, showing whether the force can rise above political pressure and public distrust to deliver justice.
A Rising Political Figure Cut Short
Akingboye, who until his death was a member of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), contested the November 2024 Ondo governorship election but lost to the incumbent, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Though he did not secure victory at the polls, political observers regarded him as a grassroots mobiliser with a growing support base in Ondo politics. His sudden death, therefore, has left many of his supporters in shock, with questions lingering about whether foul play was involved.
Questions Yet Unanswered
While initial reports suggested a “peaceful passing,” the emergence of bruises on his body has cast doubt on that narrative. Analysts note that the case underscores the importance of forensic science in Nigerian criminal investigations, especially in high-profile cases where suspicion of political undertones cannot be ruled out.
Forensic experts are expected to determine whether the bruises were the result of natural post-mortem changes, accidental injury, or something more sinister. The outcome of the investigation will be pivotal in addressing speculation and conspiracy theories currently making the rounds.
Police Assures Transparency
The Lagos Police Command has promised to keep the public updated as investigations progress, emphasizing that the findings will be evidence-driven. CP Jimoh also urged Nigerians to remain patient and avoid spreading unverified claims that could compromise the inquiry.
For now, Nigerians — particularly residents of Ondo and Lagos — wait anxiously for answers. The case remains a developing story that could either confirm suspicions of foul play or clear doubts surrounding the circumstances of Akingboye’s demise.
What is certain, however, is that the late politician’s death has once again placed Nigeria’s criminal justice system under intense public scrutiny, with many demanding that this investigation must not go the way of countless other unresolved political deaths in the country.
