Fresh details have emerged surrounding the shocking death of Otunba Bamidele Akingboye (OBA), a former Social Democratic Party (SDP) governorship candidate in Ondo State, as police have reportedly detained his wife and children on suspicion of involvement in his alleged murder.
According to SaharaReporters, a police source disclosed on Thursday that Akingboye’s death—initially announced as a sudden tragedy—is now being treated as a possible case of homicide. The source revealed that CCTV footage captured the deceased being dragged out of his Victoria Garden City (VGC), Lagos residence at about 2:00 a.m. on the night of the incident.
“The wife and children have all been arrested and taken into custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Lagos,” the source said, adding that one of Akingboye’s daughters remains at large.
The 60-year-old politician, businessman, and philanthropist was widely respected in Ondo and beyond. Before suspicions of foul play arose, his Personal Assistant and Media Adviser, Oyeniyi Iwakun, had announced his passing in a glowing tribute, describing him as “a man of unwavering integrity, an accomplished businessman, philanthropist, visionary leader, and community builder.”
However, rumours of domestic violence quickly spread after images of his lifeless body surfaced online, showing bruises and deep cuts on his head and neck. A source earlier alleged that one of his wives pushed him off a balcony during a heated domestic altercation.
Akingboye, who contested the November 16, 2024 Ondo State governorship election against incumbent Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Agboola Ajayi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and others, was the Chief Executive Officer of Benshore Maritime, Clog Oil Systems, and President of WeAfrica Group.
Police authorities have assured the public of a thorough and discreet investigation, vowing that no stone will be left unturned in uncovering the truth behind the high-profile death that has thrown Ondo State and the nation into mourning.
