About a year after Lagos-based furniture maker Tobiloba Samuel Omoosumi, popularly known as Tobywood, regained freedom from kidnappers, he has reportedly died by suicide.
Tobywood was abducted on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, while on his way to Mushin, Lagos, to purchase materials for his work. He regained his freedom a week later.
Following his ordeal, Omoosumi’s online presence diminished significantly, raising concerns among friends and fans about his safety and mental health. Described by a friend identified as Ella as one of the happiest people she knew, Tobywood was reportedly full of life, dancing and cheerful in church, even after enduring his traumatic experience. However, she noted he took his life when it seemed he was beginning to recover.
There were claims that the 25-year-old was bullied and accused of lying on X (formerly Twitter) after his release from captivity. Within months, Omoosumi transitioned from being a jovial online personality who enjoyed bantering with friends to someone who had lost his social connections.
He was also said to have been in debt, as shown in a message he sent to a client on February 11, 2025, stating: “Good evening, sir. Please, I’m really like this. I have been going through some financial crisis that made me in so much debt, and I’m really sorry for not responding, sir. Please just give me a little more time this week. By God’s grace, I will deliver everything I promised, sir, please.” Shortly after sending this message, news of his death surfaced.
In an official statement, the Omoosumi family expressed their grief: “It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved son, brother, and friend, Oluwatobi ‘Tobywood’ Omoosumi.
“Tobi departed from this world, leaving cherished memories and an indelible impact on all who knew him. In the wake of this painful loss, it is deeply disheartening to see unfounded rumours suggesting that his passing is not real. Let us be clear: this is neither a hoax nor a matter for speculation. Our family has endured an unimaginable tragedy, and the spread of misinformation only deepens our grief.
“Furthermore, we find it utterly insensitive that news of his passing was circulated online before we, his family, had the chance to process the reality of his death and obtain his death certificate. We urge everyone to remember that behind every tragedy are real people—loved ones who deserve dignity, respect, and the space to mourn without intrusion.
“Tobi has been laid to rest, and as a family, we ask for the public’s understanding and respect as we grieve privately. We want to especially appreciate the Harvesters International Christian Centre (HICC), particularly Tobi’s team members within the church, for their endless support to our son, brother, and friend while he was with us and even after leaving this world behind. We are very grateful.
“We appreciate the outpouring of love, condolences, and support, but at this time, we implore everyone to honour our decision to mourn in peace.”Speaking to The Guardian, his friend Hassan Adesina stated that the circumstances surrounding Omoosumi’s death are being investigated. However, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, Benjamin Hundeyin, said the command was not yet aware of the reported suicide.
