Japa: Nigerian admits killing 23-year-old British ex-girlfriend in UK

A man has pleaded guilty to the murder of a 23-year-old British woman, a former colleague with whom he had a brief relationship.

Stephanie Irons was found dead after emergency services were called to a property on Westdale Lane West, Mapperley, on 21 October 2025.

At a brief hearing at Nottingham Crown Court on Monday, January 26, Adedapo Adegbola, 40, of Woodborough Road, Mapperley, admitted a single charge of murder. He is due to be sentenced on 5 February.

Adegbola, who relocated to the United Kingdom in 2022, was told by Judge Nirmal Shant KC that he faces a mandatory life sentence, with the court to determine the minimum term he must serve.

Members of Ms Irons’ family were present in court, while prosecutors confirmed that victim impact statements were being prepared.

Police said the victim was fatally attacked when Adegbola visited her home after their short relationship had ended. Concerns were raised by Ms Irons’ colleagues after a series of troubling messages were sent on the evening of the incident.

Investigators said Adegbola fled the scene, leaving behind bloodstained trainers and a jumper in the Mapperley and Carlton areas. He later travelled through Mansfield, Worksop, Sheffield and Hull before returning to Nottingham the following day, when he handed himself in to police. He subsequently declined to answer questions during police interviews.

Detective Inspector Stuart Barson described the case as a tragic loss, saying a “caring and compassionate young woman” had been taken from her family and friends in distressing circumstances.

He added that Adegbola made no attempt to seek medical help after the attack and focused instead on escaping and disposing of evidence. Police also praised Ms Irons’ family for their strength throughout the investigation and court process.