Police confirm a shocking Ibadan murder after a suspect was caught with a child’s severed head, sparking outrage and fear across the community.
Panic and outrage swept through parts of Ibadan, Oyo State, on Saturday after the Police confirmed a gruesome murder involving a young girl whose severed head was found in the possession of a suspect.
The disturbing development, which occurred in Adigun Village, Olorunda Ogunsola area, has left residents shaken and fearful, with many describing it as one of the most horrifying incidents the community has witnessed in recent times.
In an official statement, the Oyo State Police Command disclosed that the incident happened on April 11, 2026, following reports that a child had been unlawfully killed.
The confirmation by the Police puts to rest earlier speculations, while raising deeper concerns about safety and violent crimes in the area.
According to authorities, the suspect, identified as 23-year-old Sodiq Kayode Akorede, was found with the severed head of a six-year-old girl, later identified as Mutiyatu Sunday.
The shocking discovery reportedly triggered immediate outrage among residents before the arrival of the Police.
Eyewitnesses said the suspect was first noticed under suspicious circumstances, prompting members of the public to question him.
As tension built, a search allegedly revealed the horrifying contents he was carrying, confirming the worst fears of those gathered.
Within minutes, the situation escalated as angry youths descended on the suspect. Some attempted to carry out jungle justice, beating him severely in reaction to the brutal crime.
The chaotic scene reflected the depth of anger and pain felt by the community.
However, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force intervened swiftly. Acting on directives from the Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, officers arrived at the scene and managed to disperse the crowd, rescue the suspect, and secure critical evidence.
Despite resistance from the mob, the Police maintained control of the situation, ensuring that the suspect was not killed and that due process could be followed.
Authorities emphasized that preserving the suspect was crucial to uncovering the full details of the crime.
Preliminary findings by the Police indicate that the suspect allegedly killed the young girl and severed her head before being apprehended.
During interrogation, he reportedly confessed to the act, although investigators say efforts are ongoing to determine whether he acted alone or as part of a wider network.
The suspect, who sustained injuries during the mob attack, was taken to a medical facility for treatment.
The Police confirmed that he will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation and eventual prosecution.
The confirmation of the incident has deepened fear across Ibadan, with residents calling for urgent action to address rising concerns about ritual-related crimes and violence.
Many community members expressed grief over the tragic loss, describing the victim as innocent and undeserving of such a fate.
“This is something we have never seen before. People are scared,” a resident said, reflecting the mood across the area.
Parents in the community have also become more vigilant, keeping closer watch on their children amid growing anxiety.
Some residents warned that unless decisive steps are taken, such incidents could erode public confidence in safety and security.
In its statement, the Police strongly cautioned against jungle justice, stressing that taking the law into one’s hands can obstruct investigations and delay justice.
The command urged residents to remain calm and allow the legal process to take its course.
Authorities also reassured the public of their commitment to ensuring justice is served. They called on citizens to report suspicious activities promptly, emphasizing that community cooperation remains key in preventing crimes.
Security analysts say the incident highlights the need for stronger intelligence gathering, community policing, and public awareness campaigns to tackle violent crimes at their roots.
As investigations continue, the people of Ibadan are watching closely, hoping that justice will be swift and decisive.

