A Nigerian man has been charged with murder after the death of a fellow Nigerian who suffered fatal injuries following an altercation outside a nightclub in South London.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that 32-year-old Maxwell Oguanaya, of Eastfield Road in Enfield, has been charged with the murder of 41-year-old Taiwo Ekerin, who died in hospital six days after he was found seriously injured outside Alpha Lounge on Lewisham High Street.
According to police, officers were called to the scene at about 4.40am on May 24 following reports of a fight outside the popular venue. Emergency responders discovered Ekerin with a severe head injury. He was treated at the scene by paramedics before being rushed to hospital.
Despite efforts by medical staff, Ekerin succumbed to his injuries on May 30, prompting detectives from Scotland Yard to launch a murder investigation.
Oguanaya was arrested on June 4 and formally charged the following day. He appeared before Ealing Magistrates’ Court on Friday, where he was remanded in custody. He is expected to appear at the next hearing on June 9.
The Metropolitan Police also disclosed that a second suspect, a 34-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of murder on June 5 and remains in police custody as investigations continue.
British media monitored by The Africa Media reported that detectives are appealing for witnesses and anyone with CCTV or dash camera footage from the area to come forward.
The victim has now been formally identified as Taiwo Ekerin. Specialist officers are supporting his family as they cope with the tragedy.
Family members have launched an online fundraising campaign to assist with funeral expenses and to support Ekerin’s young daughter. In an emotional tribute, relative Kenny Ekerin described him as a devoted father, son, brother and friend whose life was cut short in devastating circumstances.
“He was known for his warmth, kindness, sense of humour and the love he gave so freely to those around him,” the tribute said.
Detectives continue to urge members of the public who witnessed the incident outside Alpha Lounge in the early hours of May 24 to contact police as they work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the fatal assault.
