Nine Suspects Arrested Over Murder of Lagos Monarch's Son
The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of nine individuals in connection with the brutal murder of Prince Ademola Akinloye, the son of the Ajiran of Agungi, Oba Tijani Akinloye. This development marks a significant breakthrough in a high-profile case that has gripped the community.
Details of the Arrests and Investigation
According to police sources, the arrests were made following extensive intelligence gathering and meticulous enquiries. Seven of the suspects were apprehended on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, by the command's tactical squad, while two others had been taken into custody a week earlier. A police source, speaking on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the suspects are currently in custody over their alleged involvement in the killing.
The source stated, "The nine suspects currently in custody were arrested over their alleged involvement in the killing of Prince Ademola Akinloye. The arrests were based on intelligence and an ongoing investigation into the violent incidents." Additionally, some of the suspects are allegedly linked to the murder of Sheriff Salami on April 18, 2023, in the Moba community, Ajah, broadening the scope of the investigation.
Community and Royal Family Involvement
The Ojomu Royal Family of Ajiran has issued a public notice, signed by the monarch, Oba Tijani Adetunji Akinloye, and Alhaji Yekini Olawale Bakare, confirming their active involvement in the ongoing investigation. The family emphasized that the murders were carried out in broad daylight within the Ojomu community, necessitating a thorough probe to ensure accountability and resident safety.
The statement read, "The Ojomu Royal Family of Ajiran land is constrained to inform the general public that it is very much involved in the investigation regarding the murders... This investigation is to ensure that murderers do not roam freely in our kingdom and that the subjects of our kingdom can live their lives without fear." The family also expressed concerns over alleged unauthorized land sales, warning the public to exercise caution.
Support for the Investigation and Calls for Justice
Bashir Fakorede, a businessman and community member, has voiced strong support for the reopened murder case. In a statement signed by his media aide, Ola Mohammed, he commended the police for reviving the investigation and urged a swift, transparent process. Fakorede stated, "I urge the police to conduct a swift and transparent investigation, and justice must be served for the families and the community. The case was not merely a land dispute; such a narrative is misleading."
He warned against attempts to distract from the investigation through protests or property destruction, noting that the prime suspect remains at large. Fakorede praised security agencies for their renewed commitment and called on youths to pursue justice peacefully. Furthermore, he appealed to journalists to uphold professional ethics by verifying facts before publication, highlighting the importance of responsible reporting in ensuring truth and accountability in this ongoing case.
The incident, which occurred on August 26, 2024, involved gunmen shooting and butchering Prince Ademola along Chevron Drive, close to Ebano Supermarket in the community. The arrests signal a critical step towards resolving this tragic event and delivering justice to the affected families.
