Killaboi Murder Trial Commences in Lagos with Chilling Account from Victim's Uncle
The trial of Benjamin Best Nnayereugo, widely known as "Killaboi," for the alleged murder of his girlfriend, Augusta Onuwabhagbe, began today, March 4, at the Lagos High Court in Igbosere, Lagos Island. The defendant, a Nigerian punter, faces charges related to the killing, with proceedings marked by emotional testimony from the first prosecution witness.
Uncle's Harrowing Narrative of Discovery
Mr. Reginald Okonye, the uncle of the late Augusta, took the witness stand to provide a detailed account of how the family uncovered her body. Led in evidence by the Lagos State Director of Public Prosecution, Dr. Babajide Martins, Okonye informed Justice Ibironke Harrison that in July 2023, Augusta had been responding to messages from her mother and brother but consistently refused to answer phone calls over two to three days, sparking suspicion and worry.
Okonye explained that through the assistance of Augusta's roommate at Lead City University in Ibadan, the family traced her to her boyfriend's residence in the Ajah area of Lagos. He described a tense journey to Oral Estate, Ajah, where they located the house at 24a, Abiola Akpoyin Street. Upon arrival, they found Augusta's car outside with the key placed on the bonnet, but no response to their calls.
Gruesome Discovery and Police Involvement
With the building's window open but no answer, estate security advised reporting to the Ajah police station. Okonye drove there and returned with two officers, who attempted to enter the locked house. After renting a ladder, Okonye climbed up and, using his phone's torch, saw Augusta's corpse lying in a thick pool of blood. He recognized her despite the body being slightly swollen and bloated, and he discreetly informed the police to avoid alarming his sister.
The body was evacuated and deposited in a morgue around 9 PM, with confirmation received by 2 AM. Okonye later disclosed the news to family friends and assisted police in further investigations, including statements at Panti station. He noted that social media posts by the defendant, confessing to the murder after a quarrel, went viral and were copied by police.
Court Proceedings and Adjournment
Following Okonye's testimony, the DPP tendered pictures of the body and the house as evidence. Defence counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Marcel Oru, reserved objections, leading the court to admit the exhibits. Outside the courtroom, correctional officers from Kirikiri Maximum Correctional Centre shielded the defendant from journalists' cameras as he departed.
Justice Harrison adjourned the hearing until Thursday, March 5, for continuation, with the victim's mother expected to testify next. The trial highlights ongoing legal efforts to address violent crimes in Lagos, drawing public attention to issues of domestic violence and justice.
