The Lagos State Police Command has responded to a viral video in which a Nigerian mother, Adesola Iyomaterie, makes an emotional appeal for public assistance in finding her only son, Ovie Kehinde Iyomaterie, who has been missing since May 13.
In the video, the distraught mother described her son’s disappearance as completely out of character, emphasising that he had never gone a day without calling.
Now, after 25 days without contact, she says she fears the worst and has no idea whether he is alive or dead.
“We have gone to so many places to search for him. He has never behaved this way. This is the 25th day with no call, no message. It is very strange,” she said tearfully.
“We’ve reported to the police. They have initiated searches. We have visited numerous police stations, prisons, and hospitals as instructed.”
Adesola made passionate appeals to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, his son Seyi Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, and other well-meaning Nigerians, pleading for help in finding her only child.
“Please help me find my son. He is the only son that I have. I don’t know if he is alive or dead. Please have mercy on me!” she cried.
In response, the Lagos State Police Command released a statement confirming it is aware of the viral video and is actively working to locate the missing young man and reunite him safely with his family.
The statement read:
“The Command has activated all relevant investigative units, including its special tactical squads, all Police Divisions and Area Commands across Lagos, as well as those in neighbouring states, to ensure that the missing young man is found and returned safely to his family.”
The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Yaba, to take over the case and conduct a thorough investigation.
The police also urged anyone with credible information that could assist in the investigation to come forward and contact the Public Relations Officer of the Command or the nearest police station.
