The tragic murder of veteran broadcaster, Madam Olakitan Oyesiku, and her security guard, Pelumi Adetayo (38), has left many across Ogun State in shock and mourning.
What makes the incident even more heartbreaking is the allegation that the crime was masterminded by someone who was once trusted — a former security guard who had worked for the late broadcaster.
On Thursday, Ogun State Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, paraded the principal suspect, Sodeinde Olajuwon Philip (22), alongside two alleged accomplices, Sakirudeen Abdulraheem Ayoola (27) and Sobu Obafunsho (36), at the Police Command Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta.
According to police investigations, the incident came to light on June 21 after concerned individuals noticed suspicious circumstances around Madam Oyesiku’s residence. Detectives who responded to the scene discovered the lifeless body of Pelumi Adetayo inside the security house, while Madam Oyesiku was found in a pool of blood in her living room.
Police also discovered that her Lexus RX 330 SUV had been stolen, prompting a full-scale investigation involving intelligence gathering, technical tracking, and forensic analysis.
One of the major breakthroughs reportedly came from a handwritten note allegedly left behind at the crime scene. Following forensic examination and further investigation, police traced and arrested the suspects.
Investigators said the principal suspect allegedly confessed to recruiting the other two suspects and claimed he harboured grievances against the deceased from his period of employment in her service. He reportedly told investigators that the attack was intended to “teach her a lesson.”
Police further alleged that the suspects overpowered the security guard, used him to gain access to the residence, attacked Madam Oyesiku, killed both victims, and fled with the deceased’s vehicle, which was later recovered in the Onikolobo area of Abeokuta.
Further searches reportedly led to the recovery of a broken hammer, a cutlass, a plank, a black pen, and other exhibits linked to the crime.
Reacting to the development, Comrade Wale Olanrewaju, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, commended the Ogun State Police Command for its swift and professional investigation that led to the arrest of the suspects. He also called for diligent prosecution to ensure justice for both victims.
Beyond the investigation and arrests, this tragedy reminds us of the devastating consequences of unresolved grievances, violence, and betrayal of trust.
As the suspects remain presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law, many are hoping that the judicial process will provide answers, accountability, and some measure of comfort to the grieving families, colleagues, and admirers of the late broadcaster and her security guard.
May their souls rest in peace.
