The usually peaceful Bovita Central community is in mourning after Ayienugba Ezekiel, 28, was found dead with his hands tied behind his back, sparking fear and outrage among residents.
The serene Bovita Central community in Badagry, Lagos State, has been plunged into grief after the shocking discovery of 28-year-old artisan Ayienugba Ezekiel’s body in an abandoned fish pond. According to reports, Ezekiel was found on the night of Saturday, September 13, 2025, with his hands tied behind his back, leaving residents horrified and demanding justice.
At his family home, the atmosphere was heavy with sorrow. Ezekiel’s 24-year-old widow, Abiola, held their toddler close as she recounted the last time she saw her husband alive. “We had dinner together that evening. Around 6 p.m., he said he was going to a birthday party. By 9 p.m., he hadn’t returned. His phone was off. I never imagined it would be the last time I would see him,” she said, tears streaming down her face.
Abiola described the devastating moment her brother and neighbors delivered the tragic news. “When my elder brother went to the pond, he pulled out my husband’s lifeless body. His hands were tied. We’ve only been married three years. He was excited to take our son to school on Monday, but now he’s gone. I just want justice for his murder,” she lamented.
Her brother, Razak, who was first to recover Ezekiel’s body from the pond, revealed the horrifying scene. “The water was waist-deep. I felt around and found him kneeling, hands tied. We rushed him to Badagry General Hospital, but the doctor confirmed he was dead. He didn’t drown—no water came out of his stomach. He was killed and dumped here.”
Community sources allege that a scuffle erupted at the birthday party and that the celebrant may have ordered Ezekiel to be tied up. The exact circumstances leading to his death remain unclear, but police have launched a full investigation.
One resident, who gave his name only as Ben, said the loud music at the party may have prevented anyone from hearing Ezekiel’s cries for help. “Parties here are always so loud, you can’t hear what’s happening. That’s why nobody knew until the body was discovered,” he explained.
The Lagos State Police Command, through its Badagry Division, confirmed that investigations are ongoing. Statements have been taken from family members and eyewitnesses, and efforts are underway to identify all attendees of the party.
Bovita Central remains in shock, mourning a man described as jovial, hardworking, and devoted to his family. Ezekiel’s death leaves behind a grieving widow, a young son, and a community calling for justice and accountability.
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