Olubunmi Abodunde, a Nigerian residing in the United Kingdom, has confessed to the tragic killing of his wife, Taiwo, using their son’s skateboard, according to the Daily Mail. The couple, who migrated from Nigeria to the UK in 2022, had a turbulent relationship marked by allegations of infidelity and financial disputes.
Abodunde, aged 48, had been under investigation by Suffolk Police for domestic violence and was scheduled to stand trial for murder before changing his plea to guilty. Despite bail conditions prohibiting him from entering their home following a prior violent incident, Abodunde breached them and fatally attacked his wife, Taiwo, aged 41.
Judge Martyn Levett at Ipswich Crown Court warned Abodunde that the only possible sentence for his crime is life imprisonment. Suffolk Constabulary has launched an internal investigation, with three officers facing scrutiny for their handling of the case.
Abodunde had a history of jealousy and suspicion, frequently accusing his wife of cheating. Previous incidents of domestic violence had been reported to the police. His violent behavior escalated on April 27 last year when he assaulted his wife, leaving her with injuries.
Despite being released on bail with strict conditions, Abodunde returned to their home and fatally attacked Taiwo while she was alone. A post-mortem examination revealed she had been strangled, beaten, and ultimately killed with the skateboard.
Abodunde, who claimed self-defense, was later found to have no knife injuries matching his story. His defense suggested that medication may have influenced his actions, although no medical evidence was presented to support this claim.
Detective Inspector Dan Connick of Suffolk Police expressed condolences to Taiwo’s family and highlighted the devastating impact of the crime on the community. Taiwo worked as a care home assistant in Cambridge and was known for her compassion and kindness.
Abodunde has been remanded in custody and is awaiting sentencing on May 9.