The Lagos State Police Command has initiated a forensic investigation into the death of Bamidele Akingboye, the former Social Democratic Party candidate for Ondo State's governorship, following the emergence of a social media photo suggesting possible foul play and contradicting initial accounts of a peaceful passing.

Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh directed the State Criminal Investigation Department to lead the discreet probe, as announced in a statement on the command's official X account on Sunday, September 14, 2025.

Detectives, backed by the Crime Scene Investigation unit, visited Akingboye's residence in Victoria Garden City, where his body was discovered on Wednesday, September 3. The site was secured, and forensic teams deployed specialized equipment to collect evidence and reconstruct events. An autopsy is in progress, with some household members questioned to clarify details.

Akingboye, 60, a businessman known as OBA and CEO of firms like Benshore Maritime and Clog Oil Systems, died at his upscale Lagos home. Early reports from his aide, Oyeniyi Iwakun, described the passing as natural, prompting tributes from the SDP, which hailed him as a philanthropist and visionary leader focused on good governance and social justice during his 2024 campaign. He had contested the November election but lost to incumbent Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress, later alleging electoral irregularities.

Doubts surfaced after a graphic image circulated online, showing what appeared to be bruises and cuts on Akingboye's head and neck, fueling speculation of violence. Sources cited by outlets like Sahara Reporters alleged domestic issues, including claims that one of his wives may have pushed him from a balcony during an argument, leading to fatal injuries. The family, through son Samuel Akingboye, expressed shock and demanded transparency, noting Samuel had seen his father healthy the previous day.

Human rights groups, including the Liberty Youth Council, have petitioned Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun for an independent review, emphasizing the need for credibility to dispel cover-up fears. The Centre for Human Rights and Advocacy in Africa Network echoed calls for a thorough inquiry, stressing that suspicions of unnatural causes warrant impartial scrutiny. No arrests have been reported, and police have not confirmed or denied the domestic violence angle, urging the public to avoid speculation.

SDP leaders in Ondo have renewed condolences, while community figures remember his contributions to Ikaleland, where he held the traditional title Olowomeye I.