"Domestic violence victim Ronke Shonde died from brain injury" – Pathologist

Domestic violence victim Ronke Shonde, who was allegedly murdered by her husband, Lekan, reportedly died from severe brain injury, according to a pathologist with the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, Dr S.S. Soyele.

Dr. Soyele testified on Tuesday at a Lagos State High Court in Ikeja, Punch Metro reports.

At the proceedings, the pathologist said it was unlikely that the deceased inflicted the injuries on herself.

Soyele also said Ronke’s autopsy revealed that she had suffered past injuries to her brain.

He said,

“A bruise was found on her left jaw. During an autopsy, it was also discovered that the deceased had black eyes (pupils) a telltale sign of a brain injury.

“We opened up the body and brought out all the organs. We also opened up the skull to bring out the brain. Blood collection was discovered in the skull, just beneath the skin.

“The deceased’s uterus was also brought out and there was no sign of conception. We took samples from the brain in order to determine the cause of death which primarily was respiratory failure caused by trauma to the brain.”

“We took samples from the brain and discovered old haemorrhage (bleeding) in the brain, which suggests past trauma,” he added.

Lekan, 51 allegedly beat his wife to death at their home in the Egbeda-Idimu area of Lagos State on allegations of infidelity.

He surrendered himself to the police after days in hiding, claimed that he only slapped the deceased during a disagreement on the night of the incident.

He accused Ronke of sleeping with one Kayode, the general manager of a publishing company.

The matter was adjourned till October 24 for trial.