Kidnapper Pleads Guilty to Abducting 17-Year-Old UI Student, Awaits Sentencing
A man identified as David Abiodun has pleaded guilty to the abduction of Divine Ayeni, a 17-year-old student of the University of Ibadan (UI).
The development took place on Monday at the Federal High Court in Ibadan, where Abiodun was arraigned on a two-count charge of kidnapping, brought against him by the Department of State Services (DSS).
According to court proceedings, Abiodun admitted to the charges without contest, prompting the trial judge, Justice Nkeonye Maha, to adjourn the case to September 23, 2025, for the presentation of facts and final judgment.
The charges against him stem from his alleged role in the unlawful seizure and detention of the young student, an act which sparked public outcry and prompted swift intervention by security agencies. Although specific details
surrounding the circumstances of the abduction have yet to be publicly disclosed, the DSS confirmed that the accused was apprehended following a covert investigation.
Legal experts say Abiodun’s guilty plea may expedite sentencing, though the court must first review the case facts in full before delivering judgment.
The incident has once again drawn attention to the growing concerns around student safety and rising cases of kidnapping across Nigerian campuses.
Meanwhile, the family of Divine Ayeni, who was safely recovered, has expressed hope that justice will be served and that the case will serve as a deterrent to others involved in such criminal acts.
