The National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS) and stakeholders of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) have called on the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to intervene and order a special investigation into the alleged kidnapping and possible murder of Quadri Ogunbode, a 2024 graduate of Lagos State University (LASU).
Quadri, who was supposed to participate in the university’s 28th Convocation Ceremony scheduled for April 3–10, 2025, was declared missing on January 16, 2025. The Lagos State Police Command confirmed on Wednesday that three suspects, including a prophet, had been arrested in connection with the case.
However, in a statement signed by its National President, Kehinde Thomas, on Friday in Abeokuta, NAOSS expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of the case by police operatives at the Ojo and Panti Divisional Police Headquarters. The association urged the IGP to take over the investigation, citing concerns over police complicity.
Thomas revealed that during a visit to Quadri’s home in Abeokuta, it was discovered that his parents had paid money to the police for tracking the victim’s mobile phone. He stated that the call for the IGP’s intervention became necessary due to suspicions of police compromise in the investigation.
“Police operatives at the Ojo and Panti Divisional Police Headquarters have not done enough to unravel the mysterious disappearance of Quadri, despite clear evidence linking the arrested suspects to the case,” Thomas said.
He explained that NAOSS is taking up the case because Quadri was a member of the association. Thomas warned that failure by the police to resolve the matter would lead to mass protests by the student body.
“We will not allow the case to be swept under the carpet. We are prepared to take all necessary steps to uncover the truth and ensure justice for Quadri and his family,” Thomas stated.
Despite the concerns, Thomas expressed optimism that the IGP’s intervention would ensure justice and expose those responsible for the heinous act.
DAILY MENTOR reports that the case has sparked widespread concern among students and the public, with many calling for a thorough and transparent investigation. The involvement of NAOSS and NANS underscores the urgency of the matter and the determination of the student community to seek justice for Quadri.
As the investigation continues, stakeholders are hopeful that the IGP’s intervention will lead to a breakthrough in the case and bring closure to Quadri’s family. The incident highlights the need for accountability and efficiency in addressing cases of missing persons and ensuring the safety of citizens.