Quick Recap: What You Need to Know
- The Crime: Nnayereugo is accused of murdering Augusta Oseodion Onuwabhagbe in Lagos, Nigeria, in July 2023.
- The Escape: He fled Nigeria after the murder, attempting to evade arrest.
- The Hunt: An INTERPOL Red Notice was issued for his capture, leading to a global manhunt.
- The Arrest: He was initially arrested in Sierra Leone but escaped. He was later apprehended in Qatar.
- The Extradition: After a coordinated effort, he has been extradited back to Nigeria to face charges.
The Backstory: A Crime in Lagos
The story began on July 13, 2023, when Augusta Oseodion Onuwabhagbe, a 21-year-old first-class student at Lead City University, Ibadan, was found murdered at Nnayereugo’s residence in Ajah, Lagos. According to police reports, Nnayereugo fled the country immediately after the crime, attempting to escape justice.
The Chase: A Global Manhunt
Following a petition from the victim’s family, the Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with INTERPOL, launched a full-scale investigation. Nnayereugo was declared wanted, and an INTERPOL Red Notice – essentially an international arrest warrant – was issued for his apprehension.
Twists and Turns: Escape and False Identities
The chase was far from straightforward. Nnayereugo was initially arrested in Freetown, Sierra Leone, in October 2023, using the fake name “KANU PRINCETON SAMUEL.” However, he managed to escape during a prison break. He then embarked on a journey across West Africa, East Asia, and the Middle East, constantly changing his identity and using forged documents. Think of it like a real-life spy movie, but with far graver consequences.
The Final Act: Apprehension in Qatar
Eventually, Nnayereugo settled in Doha, Qatar, assuming the alias “TOURE ABDOULAYE” and using a fraudulent Guinean passport to secure employment. However, his past caught up with him. Thanks to advanced biometric technology and cooperation between INTERPOL offices in Abuja and Doha, his true identity was confirmed. Qatari authorities arrested him in February 2025.
Justice Served: Extradition to Nigeria
Following his arrest, the Nigerian government, through the Ministry of Justice, requested Nnayereugo’s extradition. The Qatari judicial authorities approved the request, and Nnayereugo was finally returned to Nigeria to face trial.
What’s Next?
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has assured the public that Nnayereugo will face diligent prosecution. This case highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating crime and ensuring that justice is served, no matter where criminals try to hide. The successful extradition sends a strong message: you can run, but you can’t hide from the long arm of the law.
Related Developments
This extradition comes amidst ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Police Force to enhance security and combat crime across the country. Recent initiatives include increased patrols, improved intelligence gathering, and enhanced collaboration with international law enforcement agencies.
The IGP commended the efforts of all involved, including the Ministry of Justice, INTERPOL NCB Abuja, the Qatari government, and the Nigerian Embassy in Qatar, for their roles in securing Nnayereugo’s return.
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