Ogun Court Delivers Justice for Murdered Fatinoye Family
Two years after the brutal murder of Kehinde and Bukola Fatinoye, along with their son, Oreoluwa, the Ogun State High Court has sentenced their killers to death by hanging.
Justice Basirat Adebowale, presiding over the case in Abeokuta, found Adekanbi Lekan, Odetola Ahmed, and Adeniyi Waheed guilty of multiple charges, including murder, armed robbery, and arson.
The verdict, delivered after a three-hour session on Monday, February 3, 2025, handed the convicts sentences ranging from death by hanging to life imprisonment with hard labor.
The Night of the Crime
The Fatinoyes, residents of Oba Karunwi Road in Abeokuta, had just returned from a crossover service at Christ Anglican Church when their driver, Lekan, and his gang ambushed them. In a horrific act, they robbed, murdered the couple, and set their home ablaze around 1:30 AM.
The assailants also bound their 26-year-old son, Oreoluwa, and their adopted son, Felix, before throwing them into a river along Adigbe-Obada Road. While Felix survived, Oreoluwa tragically lost his life.
Convictions and Sentencing
Apart from the primary perpetrators, other individuals were also arraigned, including Lekan’s wife, Temitope Fadairo, his mother, Adekanbi Adenike, and several others on a 24-count charge.
These charges ranged from conspiracy to commit murder and arson to obstruction of justice and receiving stolen property.
While Temitope received a four-year concurrent sentence, Adenike was sentenced to one year in prison.
Family Reactions: “Justice Brings Relief”
Zacchaeus Fatinoye, younger brother of the late Kehinde, expressed a sense of relief, acknowledging that while his brother’s life could not be restored, the court’s decision offered the family some closure.
“We feel at peace knowing that justice has been served, even though nothing can bring my brother back,” he stated.
Church members also reacted, recalling the Fatinoyes’ dedication to their faith and community.
“He was a committed church member, and we are grateful that justice has finally been delivered,” said Olufemi Oladipo, a fellow worshipper.
Defense Lawyers Consider Appeal
Despite the convictions, the defense counsel for the first, second, and third defendants, Babatunde Busari, hinted at a possible appeal.
“We will consult with our clients to determine the next course of action,” he said when asked about challenging the ruling.
Meanwhile, Dr. Kayode Akinsola, representing Abass Odetola—one of the accused who was later acquitted—commended the judgment, stating that justice must always prevail.
“No criminal should go unpunished, and this ruling should serve as a deterrent to others,” he remarked.
Ogun AG: No Hesitation in Signing Death Warrants
In a related development, Ogun State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Oluwasina Ogungbade (SAN), emphasized that the government is ready to approve death sentences for convicted criminals.
“Ogun State will not tolerate heinous crimes. We are reviewing the legal framework to ensure justice is fully implemented,” he declared during a visit to the state correctional facility.
Ogungbade also pointed out that signing death warrants could serve as a deterrent to rising cases of ritual killings, kidnappings, and cult-related violence.
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