Special Reports

Ex-security guard, two others arraigned over murder of Ogun broadcaster

Three men accused of murdering Kitan Oyesiku, a former Ogun State Television (OGTV) broadcaster and Pelumi Adetayo, her security guard, have been arraigned before a magistrate court in Abeokuta as police move to prosecute the high-profile homicide case.

The suspects were brought before Magistrate Court 3, Isabo, on Monday following investigations by the Ogun State Police Command into the killings that shocked residents of the state capital.

Confirming the development, CSP Omolola Odutola, the command’s spokesperson, said the suspects were formally charged after detectives concluded the preliminary phase of the investigation.

The accused include 22-year-old Sodeinde Olajuwon Philip, identified by police as the principal suspect, alongside Sakirudeen Abdulraheem Ayoola, 27, and Sobu Obafunsho, 36.

Police said the investigation gained momentum after forensic experts analysed evidence recovered from Oyesiku’s stolen Lexus RX330, leading investigators to Philip, who was arrested at a construction site in Abeokuta.

According to investigators, further intelligence gathering resulted in the arrest of the two other suspects allegedly linked to the crime.

The police alleged that Philip admitted participating in the attack, claiming he acted out of resentment stemming from his previous employment as a security guard in the deceased’s residence.

Investigators further alleged that the suspects subdued Adetayo before gaining access to the house, where both victims were killed.

Police also recovered the deceased’s vehicle through intelligence-led operations and seized several items believed to have been used during the attack, including a hammer, cutlass, wooden plank and other exhibits.

The command said the prosecution marks the beginning of the judicial process, adding that further legal proceedings will determine the culpability or otherwise of the defendants.