6:22pm Thursday 4th October 2007
By Dan Menhinnitt
The family of a bouncer shot while shielding a woman at a Wandsworth nightclub has made an emotional appeal for the public's help in catching his killer.
Kolawole Ojo Babadiya died after he and another man were shot on July 15 at around 1.37am at the ticket only SW8 Club Bar in Wandsworth Road.
Officers believe Mr Babadiya, a bouncer at the club, was hit by shots from a high powered weapon as he tried to protect a customer standing close by.
He received a single gunshot wound to the head, while the second man was discharged from hospital after being treated for muscle tissue damage.
Officers admit they are no closer to caching the 28-year-old's killer and are offering a £20,000 reward for information leading to the identification, arrest and prosecution of those responsible for his death.
Speaking at a police press conference today Jumoke Osho, Mr Babadiya's sister, said: "Kola's death is a tragic loss to the whole family. What pains us most in our grieving are the questions that are still unanswered - who did this and why? What was their motive?
"If these questions can be answered it will go a long way to helping us cope with our loss.
"We beg anyone who knows anything about who did this to please come forward; please help to ease the pain of our family losing a brother, a son and an uncle."
Mr Babadiya's aunt, Seyi Olusanye, said: "Kola was a gentle guy; he was big but he had a big heart as well. He was not involved in drugs or gangs - we are not that kind of family. We are all in shock but family and friends are rallying round to support us."
She added: "My message to the person who did this would be to come forward. It may be the way to save yourself from sinking deeper into the world of crime. We are ready to forgive you but you have to come forward."
According to witnesses the gunman was wearing a long, dark coat when he opened fire using a high-powered weapon - which he had difficulty controlling.
Anyone with information should call 020 8247 4554 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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