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| Ayienugba Ezekiel |
The Povita community in Badagry, Lagos State, is reeling in shock and fear after the brutal murder of 28-year-old artisan, Ayienugba Ezekiel. The victim's body was discovered in an abandoned fish pond, his hands tied firmly behind his back, sending waves of panic through the neighborhood.
The tragedy unfolded on the evening of Saturday, September 13, 2025. Ezekiel had left his home after a final meal with his wife, Abiola, telling her he was heading to a local birthday party. When he failed to return by 9 p.m. and his phone was switched off, his family's worry turned to dread.
The grim discovery was made near the party venue. A search party located Ezekiel's body submerged in the swampy pond. His brother-in-law, Razak, who pulled him from the water, reported that the victim was found in a kneeling position with his hands bound. Despite being rushed to Badagry General Hospital, he was confirmed dead by doctors.
Distraught and heartbroken, his 24-year-old widow, Abiola, clutched her toddler son as she spoke of their devastating loss. "My world has been shattered," she cried. "We’ve only been married three years. He was so excited about taking our son to school for the first time on Monday. Now, I just want justice."
Initial reports from the scene and the family's observations point strongly to homicide. Family members confirmed that no water was expelled from his body, indicating he did not drown but was likely killed elsewhere before being dumped in the pond.
Community sources suggest a violent altercation at the party may have led to the tragedy. Some allege the celebrant ordered Ezekiel to be tied up. Residents also noted that the excessively loud music at the event would have drowned out any cries for help.
The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed that its Badagry Division has launched a full-scale investigation into the murder. Authorities have collected statements from family members and witnesses and are working to track down all individuals present at the fateful party.
The chilling incident has left the tight-knit community of Bovita on edge, mourning the loss of a man described as jovial and dedicated to his young family, whose future is now overshadowed by uncertainty and a desperate cry for justice.