Bottom: His victim, Stephanie Irons
A 40-year-old man, Adedapo Adegbola, who relocated from Nigeria to the United Kingdom in 2022, has admitted to the murder of a 23-year-old British woman with whom he had a brief relationship.
The victim, Stephanie Irons, was discovered by emergency responders at a residence on Westdale Lane West in Mapperley on October 21, 2025, after police were alerted to concerns about her safety.
Appearing briefly before Nottingham Crown Court on Monday, January 26, Adedapo Adegbola, of Woodborough Road, Mapperley, pleaded guilty to a single count of murder. The court fixed his sentencing for February 5.
The presiding judge, Nirmal Shant KC, informed Adegbola that the offence carries a mandatory life sentence, with the court to determine the minimum term he must serve.
Members of Irons’ family were present in court, while prosecutors confirmed that victim impact statements were being prepared.
Police described Stephanie as “a caring and compassionate young woman” who was taken from her loved ones in “horrific circumstances.”
Investigators said Adegbola went to her home after their brief relationship had ended and fatally attacked her.
Concern was first raised by colleagues after they received troubling messages from Irons on the evening of the incident.
Following the killing, Adegbola reportedly fled the area, leaving behind blood-stained trainers and a jumper in Mapperley and Carlton.
Police tracked his movements through Mansfield, Worksop, Sheffield, and Hull before he eventually returned to Nottingham the following day and turned himself in.
Officers said he later refused to answer questions during police interviews.
Detective Inspector Stuart Barson stated that Adegbola made no effort to seek medical help for the victim and focused solely on escaping and attempting to dispose of evidence.
He also praised Irons’ family for their strength throughout the investigation, expressing hope that the court outcome would help them begin to find closure.
In a tribute released after her death, Stephanie’s family described her as a “beautiful, loving and caring daughter, sister, niece, cousin and friend,” adding that she always saw the good in others and had a generous heart.
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