The Centre for Human and Socio-economic Rights (CHSR) has urged the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Tijani Fatai, to expedite the trial of suspects connected to the brutal murders of two Ajiran indigenes, Mr. Sheriff Salami and Kazeem Akinloye. The call was made by CHSR President, Alex Omotehinse, during a press conference in Lagos yesterday, where he also demanded the immediate arraignment of the suspects before a competent court to ensure an unimpeded prosecution.
Details of the Incidents
Omotehinse highlighted that the two separate incidents, occurring in April 2023 and August 2024 respectively, serve as stark reminders of the grave threat posed by organized violence and the urgent need for institutional accountability. He noted that CHSR, acting within its statutory mandate to defend justice and protect citizens' rights, deemed it necessary to address the public on developments surrounding the cases and the ongoing legal process, particularly in light of emerging facts, procedural concerns, and alleged attempts to frustrate justice.
According to Omotehinse, beyond a mere criminal investigation, the matter has evolved into a broader test of the integrity of Nigeria's justice system, the resilience of law enforcement institutions, and society's collective resolve against impunity. He disclosed that Ahmed Akanbi has been declared wanted by the police following the arrest and confessional statements of two principal suspects allegedly linked to the killings.
First Incident: Murder of Sheriff Salami
Based on the police account cited by the group, on April 18, 2023, at approximately 2:00 p.m., Safiu Fatai, Yusuf Ismaila, Soji Mascot, and Kenny, armed with a locally fabricated pistol, axe, and machetes, allegedly ambushed Sheriff Salami Ishola. The victim was reportedly taken to an isolated building along Mobile Road in Moba, Ajah, where he was restrained and shot multiple times at close range, resulting in his death. The assailants are said to have fled the scene immediately after the attack.
Second Incident: Murder of Prince Ademola Akinloye
On the second incident, the group alleged that the same suspects employed a similar modus operandi in the killing of Prince Ademola Akinloye, son of Oba Adetunji Akinloye, the Ojomu of Ajiran Land. The attack reportedly occurred on August 26, 2024, at about 11:00 a.m. along Chevron Road, where the victim was allegedly shot several times, leading to his death.
Alleged Sponsorship and Confessions
Further disclosures from suspects in custody, according to CHSR, revealed that both crimes were allegedly carried out on the orders of Akanbi, who is accused of sponsoring the operations. The group said the suspects allegedly confessed that they were promised N2 million, with an initial payment of N500,000 each after the first killing, alongside promises of foreign travel opportunities and enhanced social status.
CHSR stressed that while the revelations provide disturbing but important insight into the nature of the crimes, it remains deeply concerned over procedural delays and the handling of the matter, especially regarding timely prosecution. The centre reiterated its call for the police to ensure that justice is served without further delay.
