Focus Foundation, community demand justice over killing of founder’s Personal Assistant

Michael Olumide

Members of the Focus Foundation, alongside residents of the Oke Ogun community in Ilorin East Local Government Area of Kwara State, on Tuesday, January 7, 2026, took to the streets in a peaceful protest to seek justice over the killing of Mr. Olarenwaju Babalola, a foundation member and personal assistant to its pioneer, Mr. Temitope Stephen Bamidele.

According to a statement made available by the foundation Secretary, Mr. John Fasi, Babalola reportedly passed away on January 5th, 2026, at about 3:00 p.m., after battling complications from severe injuries he sustained during an attack at his residence in Ilorin on June 1, 2025.

He had remained hospitalized since the incident.

The attack was carried out by unknown gunmen who invaded the deceased’s home while allegedly searching for the foundation’s pioneer, Mr. Bamidele.

The assailants were said to have demanded information on his whereabouts, with the apparent intention of killing him.

Bamidele, however, was not at the location at the time.

He had earlier escaped a kidnapping attempt on June 2, 2024, at 20, Oke Ogun Close, an incident that reportedly forced him to relocate due to heightened security concerns.

The prolonged hospitalization and eventual death of Mr. Babalola sparked outrage within the Oke Ogun community, leading residents and members of Focus Foundation to take to the streets in solidarity.

The protesters marched to the Danialu community head, carrying placards with inscriptions demanding justice, improved security, and accountability for the killing.

During the protest, members of the foundation also paid condolence visits to the widow and children of the deceased, describing , Babalola as a loyal, committed, and selfless individual who dedicated his life to service.

The Foundation, condemned the attack and described the death as a painful loss not only to the foundation but to the entire community.

“This is a tragic and unjust death. Our member was attacked simply because criminals were looking for someone else. We are demanding a thorough investigation and the arrest of those responsible,” he said.

Mr. Fasi further called on security agencies to intensify efforts to protect lives and property, noting that persistent insecurity has continued to threaten peace and development in the area.

The Focus Foundation reiterated its demand for justice, urging government authorities and law enforcement agencies to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to book, while also providing support to the bereaved family.