A body has been discovered during the hunt for a missing man from a UK music event.
Gboyega Odubanjo, a 27-year-old award-winning poet, was scheduled to play at the Shambala Festival in Northamptonshire on Sunday (August 27), but did not appear.
The man was last seen at 4 a.m. the previous morning, prompting a high-profile hunt that quickly went viral on social media.
“Our thoughts are with the man’s family at this very difficult time,” Detective Chief Inspector Johnny Campbell said. “We would ask the media and members of the public not to contact them and respect their privacy.”
“We would like to thank all those involved in the search efforts, including the volunteer members of Northamptonshire Search and Rescue and the specialist search-trained officers from other forces who supported our efforts.
“We would also like to thank all those who have supported our investigation by speaking to officers or getting in touch with information.
“Officers from Northamptonshire Police will now prepare a file for the coroner.”
Although formal identification of the deceased has not yet occurred, Odubanjo’s family has been notified and is already receiving assistance from specially trained officers.
There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death, according to authorities.
Prior to today’s unfortunate finding, Odubanjo’s family issued an appeal in an attempt to rescue him.
“We appeal to you today with heavy hearts and profound concern, to help us find our beloved son and brother Gboyega,” they said.
“Gboyega is a loving and caring son who means the world to our family. He is currently studying for his PhD in creative writing at University of Hertfordshire. He has a warm and infectious personality, a contagious smile, and a heart full of kindness.
“We believe that Gboyega’s disappearance is entirely out of character for him, and we are genuinely worried for his safety and wellbeing.
“We are reaching out to the community, friends, and all compassionate individuals who may have any information that could lead to his safe return. No piece of information is too small, and your help could be the key to bringing him back to us.
“Thank you for taking the time to read our appeal. We pray for Gboyega’s safe return and for the strength to endure this challenging time.”
Multi-award-winner Odubanjo bagged the Poetry Business New Poets prize in 2020 for his pamphlet, Aunty Uncle Poems.
He also received the Eric Gregory award from the Society of Authors and the Michael Marks pamphlet award.
He also worked as an editor for Bad Betty Press and the poetry publication Bath Magg.
Every year, hundreds of festival-goers go to Kelmarsh Hall near Kettering for a weekend of music, comedy, and poetry readings.
