The Oyo State Police Command has arrested a 23-year-old suspect, Sodiq Kayode Akorede, in connection with the alleged killing and beheading of a 6-year-old girl, Mutiyatu Sunday, in Ibadan.
Police spokesperson Olayinka Ayanlade said in a statement Sunday that the incident occurred April 11, 2026, in Adigun Village, Olorunda Ogunsola area.
Ayanlade said police received intelligence that the suspect was found in possession of the severed head of the victim. Following the report, Commissioner of Police Abimbola Olugbenga ordered operatives to proceed to the scene, secure evidence and arrest the suspect.
“Police officers swiftly mobilised to the scene and, despite stiff resistance from an irate mob, acted with professionalism and restraint to rescue and arrest the suspect, as well as recover the exhibit found in his possession,” the statement said.
Police said preliminary investigations indicate the suspect allegedly killed the child and severed her head, which was later recovered. Authorities added that the suspect confessed during interrogation.
The police said the suspect sustained injuries during a mob attack and is receiving treatment at a medical facility. He will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Olugbenga warned against jungle justice, saying such actions could hinder investigations and undermine due process.
The command assured residents that justice would be served and urged the public to remain law-abiding and report suspicious activities.
In a related development, the Ogun State Police Command earlier arrested three suspects in Mowe over alleged conspiracy and unlawful possession of a human skull.
Police spokesperson Babaseyi Oluseyi said the suspects were apprehended Jan. 8, 2026, and transferred to the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department, Eleweran, Abeokuta, for further investigation.
