Oyo State, Nigeria – In a significant development, 25 students suspected of being involved in the brutal murder of Alex Timileyi, a 200-level engineering student at Ajayi Crowther University, were arraigned before the Chief Magistrate in Oyo State on Wednesday.
This follows the tragic incident that took place on May 24, 2023, when Timileyi was allegedly beaten to death by his peers over accusations of stealing a mobile phone.
The court proceedings were confirmed through documents obtained by PUNCH Metro, shedding light on the gravity of the case that has since drawn widespread attention and condemnation.
The Incident
According to reports, Timileyi was subjected to a vicious assault inside a hostel known as Shepherd Inn, located on the university premises.
The attack, reportedly carried out by his fellow students, involved not only severe physical beating but also the forceful shaving of Timileyi’s hair after he was accused of stealing a mobile phone. The intensity of the assault resulted in his untimely death.
University Response
Following the incident, the management of Ajayi Crowther University took swift action by expelling several students believed to be involved in the crime.
These students were subsequently handed over to the Oyo State Police for further investigation and prosecution. The university’s prompt response aimed to ensure that justice is served and to maintain the integrity and safety of its campus.
Family’s Call for Justice
The case gained additional momentum through social media, where an X.com user known as “Lord of Warri,” who identified himself as a relative of the deceased, publicly petitioned Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.
In his petition, he urged the governor to ensure that those responsible for the heinous crime were brought to justice. The public plea highlighted the family’s grief and their determination to see justice served for the late Alex Timileyi.
Arraignment and Public Reaction
On June 5, in a show of commitment to justice, 25 students were arraigned in connection with Timileyi’s death. The arraignment was a critical step in the legal process, marking the beginning of what is expected to be a closely watched trial.
Expressing his gratitude towards the state authorities, the activist “Lord of Warri” took to X.com to acknowledge the efforts made by the Oyo State officials.
“On June 5, 25 students were arraigned in court in connection with the tragic murder of Prince Alex Timileyin, a son of the Warri Kingdom and a student at Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo,” he wrote.
Alongside his message of appreciation were documents listing the names of the accused students and details of the court handling the case.
Moving Forward
The arraignment of the suspects marks a crucial step in Alex Timileyi’s quest for justice. As the legal proceedings continue, the case remains under close scrutiny by both the public and the authorities.
The university community, along with Timileyi’s family and supporters, are hopeful that the judicial process will bring closure and accountability for the tragic loss of a young life.
This incident has also sparked a broader conversation about campus safety and the measures needed to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As the case unfolds, it serves as a somber reminder of the importance of justice and the collective responsibility to protect the lives and well-being of students.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members