Police Arrest Prime Suspect in Ajiran Killings as Rights Groups Warn Against “Justice Sabotage”

 


By oluwaseyi fadoro 

A coalition of human rights organizations in Lagos has confirmed the arrest of a prime suspect in the high-profile murders of two Ajiran indigenes, while cautioning against what it described as deliberate attempts to derail police investigations.


At a press conference held on Wednesday, the coalition—led by the Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR)—said the arrest of Alhaji Ahmed Tajudeen Akanbi marks a major breakthrough in the ongoing investigation into the killings of Mr. Sheriff Ishola Salami and Prince Kazeem Ademola Akinloye.


The victims were murdered in separate incidents in Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State—Salami in April 2023 at Moba town near Ajiran community, and Akinloye in August 2024 along Chevron Drive, Lekki.


Addressing journalists, CHSR President, Comrade Alex Omotehinse, disclosed that Akanbi was apprehended on April 15, 2026, in Cotonou, Benin Republic, through the efforts of the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL). He is currently in custody at the Zone 2 Police Headquarters in Onikan, Lagos.


The coalition commended the Nigeria Police Force, particularly the Lagos State Command, for what it described as “relentless commitment” to ensuring justice for the victims. It also acknowledged the role of the immediate past Commissioner of Police in Lagos, AIG Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, under whose leadership initial arrests were made.


Earlier, police had arrested two suspects—Safiu Fatai, also known as Fabo, and Yusuf Ismaila, alias Bariga—who reportedly confessed to involvement in the crimes and identified Akanbi and others as masterminds.


While welcoming the progress, the coalition raised concerns over what it termed “ill-motivated campaigns” by certain individuals posing as civil society actors. 


According to the group, these actors are attempting to mislead the public and undermine police efforts through unfounded allegations and legal maneuvers aimed at obstructing investigations.


“It is disturbing that some individuals are resorting to deceptive tactics, including seeking restraining court orders, to frustrate lawful police actions,” Omotehinse said. “The media must remain vigilant and avoid being used as a tool to pervert justice.”


The coalition emphasized that it is the constitutional responsibility of the police to investigate criminal matters and urged that all suspects be allowed to face due process without interference.


The group also called on the current Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Tijani Fatai, to remain steadfast in ensuring that all those found culpable are prosecuted.


Reiterating its commitment to justice, the coalition urged journalists to continue holding authorities accountable while prioritizing factual reporting. It stressed the need for sustained public confidence in the police and the justice system.


The organizations further appealed for increased security presence in Ajiran community to reassure residents amid ongoing investigations.


The press conference ended with a renewed call for justice for the victims and their families, with the coalition expressing optimism that the truth will ultimately prevail.

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