A Nigerian man who moved to the United Kingdom a few years ago has confessed to the murder of a 23-year-old British woman, a former colleague with whom he had a brief romantic involvement. The tragic case has sent shockwaves through the community and highlighted the devastating impact of violent crime.
Court Appearance and Guilty Plea
During a brief hearing at Nottingham Crown Court on Monday, January 26, 2026, Adedapo Adegbola, aged 40 and residing on Woodborough Road in Mapperley, admitted to a single charge of murder. The court was informed that he will be sentenced on February 5, 2026, with Judge Nirmal Shant KC stating that Adegbola faces a mandatory life sentence, and the only remaining question is determining the minimum term he must serve before being considered for parole.
Discovery of the Victim
The body of Stephanie Irons was discovered by emergency services after they were called to an address on Westdale Lane West in Mapperley on October 21, 2025. Police revealed that Adegbola fatally wounded Irons while visiting her home after their short-lived relationship had ended. Members of Irons's family were present in court during the proceedings, and the prosecution confirmed that victim impact statements are currently being prepared to convey the profound loss suffered by her loved ones.
Police Investigation and Manhunt
According to officers, the alarm was raised by Irons's co-workers after they received a series of concerning messages on the evening of the attack. Adegbola fled the scene immediately after the incident, leaving behind blood-stained trainers and a jumper on the streets of Mapperley and Carlton. He then embarked on a journey that took him to Mansfield, Worksop, Sheffield, and finally to Hull in an attempt to evade capture.
On October 22, 2025, Adegbola returned to Nottingham and voluntarily surrendered himself to authorities. However, during subsequent police interviews, he provided no comment to questions posed by detectives, remaining silent about the details of the crime.
Tributes and Family Impact
In a heartfelt tribute released shortly after her death, Irons's family described her as a "bright young star" whose future was tragically taken away. They portrayed her as a "beautiful, loving, and caring daughter, sister, niece, cousin, and friend" who possessed immense compassion and always saw the good in others. "She had a huge heart and wore it on her sleeve," the family added, emphasizing the void left by her absence.
Police Statement and Community Response
Detective Inspector Stuart Barson commented on the case, stating, "This is a tragic case in which a caring and compassionate young woman was taken away in horrific circumstances." He noted that following the attack, Adegbola made no attempt to call for an ambulance and was solely focused on escaping the scene and disposing of crucial evidence. Barson expressed gratitude to Irons's family for their incredible strength throughout the investigation and expressed hope that the guilty plea would assist them in coming to terms with their dreadful loss.
The case underscores the broader issues of domestic violence and the severe consequences of such acts, particularly within diaspora communities. Adegbola, who relocated to the UK in 2022, now awaits his sentencing, which is expected to bring some measure of justice for the victim's family and friends.
