The Kwara State High Court in Ilorin was gripped by deep emotion and palpable grief on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, as the gruesome trial of AbdulRahman Bello, infamously dubbed the Facebook killer lover, continued.
The courtroom fell silent as police presented severed human body parts believed to belong to the late Hafsoh Lawal, Bello’s lover, who was allegedly murdered and dismembered for ritual purposes.
Shocking Evidence and Grief in Court
According to testimonies presented by police witnesses, body parts, including the deceased’s severed hands, were introduced as part of the prosecution’s evidence. The moment became unbearable when Ibrahim Lawal, father of the late Hafsoh, was asked to identify the dismembered remains. Overcome with emotion, he broke down in tears, sparking a wave of sorrow across the courtroom, with several attendees also visibly shaken.
The courtroom, filled with family members, observers, and legal professionals, was momentarily overtaken by the stench of decomposing flesh, underscoring the brutality of the crime. In a compassionate gesture, Justice Hannah Ajayi, who is presiding over the trial, paused the proceedings to offer a prayer for the grieving father, asking God to grant him strength and comfort during the ordeal.
Timeline of a Ritual Killing: The Case Against AbdulRahman Bello
AbdulRahman Bello, an Ilorin-based cleric, stands accused of the ritualistic killing and dismemberment of 23-year-old Hafsoh Lawal in February 2025. Investigators allege that Bello lured the young woman—whom he was romantically involved with—before taking her life and mutilating her body in an attempt to perform money rituals.
The victim was reported missing by her family, and police launched an investigation. On February 13, 2025, Bello was arrested following leads from mobile phone tracking and call logs. During interrogation, he allegedly confessed to the murder, a revelation that stunned both the family and the wider Ilorin community.
Police Exhibit Horrific Items Recovered from Crime Scene
During the hearing, Yusuf Dauda, a police witness and custodian of exhibits, detailed the evidence collected from Bello’s residence and a nearby dumpsite. Among the items presented in court were:
- A bloodstained cutlass and axe
- A knife and a keg filled with human blood
- A center table with blood stains
- The deceased’s slippers, mobile phones, and jewelry
- Two severed hands, later identified by the victim’s father
Dauda confirmed that the materials were documented under the case of criminal conspiracy, culpable homicide, and illegal possession of human parts. The evidence was submitted by Inspector Ayodele Azeez, a member of the anti-robbery unit of the Nigerian Police Force.
Cross-Examination and Defense Argument
During cross-examination, defense attorney Chukwudi Maduka attempted to question the integrity of the investigation, implying that Dauda had not personally witnessed the recovery of the items. However, Dauda maintained a consistent and firm stance, reinforcing that all exhibits were properly processed in accordance with standard procedures.
Court Adjourns Case Until May 12, 2025
Justice Hannah Ajayi adjourned the trial to Monday, May 12, 2025, for the continuation of proceedings. The case is being closely watched by the public due to its horrific nature and the social media connection between the accused and the victim.
