Lagos, September 5, 2025 —
Shockwaves continue to trail the sudden death of renowned businessman and former Social Democratic Party (SDP) governorship candidate in Ondo State, Otunba Bamidele Akingboye (popularly known as OBA), after disturbing details emerged suggesting he may not have died a natural death.
Akingboye, 60, was reported dead on Wednesday morning at his residence in Victoria Garden City (VGC), Lagos. Initial announcements described him as a philanthropist, maritime executive, and political leader who passed peacefully.
However, controversy erupted when a graphic image of his body surfaced online showing visible bruises on his head, raising suspicions of foul play.
The viral photo has fueled widespread speculation, with many questioning the official account of his death.
Civil society groups and concerned Nigerians have demanded a thorough police investigation to unravel the true circumstances.
Canadian-based rights activist Jimmy Adekanye joined calls for justice, insisting that “the bruising strongly suggests he was attacked prior to his death.”
He said, “You are all aware that yesterday we woke up to the sad news of the demise of our brother, Otunba Bamidele Akingboye.
“When I first saw the news and the narratives surrounding his death, I knew something was not right, so I swung into action. In the course of my findings, I stumbled on some pictures which appear to have been hidden from the public.
“Those pictures raise serious questions. The people who pushed the narrative that he died of sickness or illness should be called to explain further, because when you see the footage of Otunba, you will know that he was attacked.
“The deep cuts on his head, the bruises on his face, and the blood all over his body—down to his tummy—clearly show he did not die of natural causes. Yet, they want us to believe he died of sickness.
“We are now using this medium to call on the Nigerian Police Force, the Inspector General of Police, the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, and the DSS to carry out an in-depth investigation to unravel the truth behind his death.
“Otunba Bamidele Akingboye was one of our illustrious sons from Ikale land, a man we cherished and valued so much. He helped countless brothers and sisters from Ikare land and Ondo State in general. As you know, he was the governorship candidate of the SDP in the last election.
“He was a gentleman, easy-going and peace-loving. That is why his sudden death under such suspicious circumstances calls for answers. My findings suggest that he died in his own house.
“We want to know what really happened. We want to know who painted the false narrative that he died of sickness. If you see the pictures, you will know that Otunba died from an attack. His death was not natural.
“Please, kindly share this message until it reaches the Inspector General of Police, the Police Public Relations Officer, the Commissioner of Police in Lagos, and the DSS. We demand a thorough investigation to bring to book those responsible for the death of our brother, our illustrious son, Otunba Bamidele Akingboye.”
Police authorities confirmed late Wednesday that an investigation has been opened, promising to leave no stone unturned in uncovering the truth.
Otunba Akingboye, who contested the 2024 Ondo State governorship election under the SDP platform, was respected for his integrity, philanthropy, and political ideals.
His passing has thrown the nation into mourning, but the emerging controversy threatens to overshadow tributes to his legacy.
He is survived by his wives, children, grandchildren, and siblings.
