The Coalition of Civil Rights Organisations for Good Governance has publicly backed the Nigeria Police Force in the ongoing controversy surrounding the Ajiran murder case involving Assistant Inspector-General of Police for Zone 2, AIG Moshood Olohundare Jimoh. In a statement jointly signed by Comrade Olufemi Lawson and Chief Declan Ihekaire, the coalition warned that attempts to reduce criminal proceedings to social media campaigns must be resisted, insisting that the law must take its course.
Coalition Warns Against Media Pressure
The coalition, in a statement sighted by Legit.ng on Wednesday, August 5, argued that while scrutinising government institutions is a democratic necessity, it must not cross into territory that compromises the fairness of criminal investigations and court proceedings. The group maintained that AIG Jimoh is entitled to the same constitutional right to defend himself through recognised legal channels as any other Nigerian.
The coalition also praised Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu for what it described as institutional maturity in ensuring that criminal justice remains within the authority of constitutionally recognised agencies rather than online public opinion. It said the police leadership has shown commendable restraint in the face of public provocation.
Concern Over Leaked Documents
The coalition raised concern about confidential investigative documents relating to the trial appearing in circulation. It said such leaks risk undermining the administration of justice and called on the Nigeria Police Force to conduct a thorough internal investigation to identify whoever was responsible for the unauthorised release of sensitive materials.
The statement added that anyone found complicit in leaking official police documents should face appropriate disciplinary action under the law. The group stressed that the integrity of the criminal justice system depends on the confidentiality of investigative processes.
Call for Evidence-Based Prosecution
On the prosecution of Tajudeen Akanbi in connection with the alleged Ajiran killings, the coalition said the case must be decided solely on admissible evidence before a competent court. It noted that no form of intimidation or orchestrated media pressure should be allowed to influence the outcome.
“Protecting the integrity of Nigeria's criminal justice system requires equal respect for the rights of victims, suspects, law enforcement officers and every other party involved in the process,” the coalition stated. It reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability, urging all stakeholders, including the press, civil society, and members of the public, to allow the police, oversight institutions and the courts to carry out their constitutional duties without interference.
Police Reaffirm Court Process
Previously, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) on Tuesday, August 4, reaffirmed that the criminal case linked to the Ajiran murders remains before a court of competent jurisdiction and should be allowed to proceed without interference from public campaigns or media commentary. The position was contained in a statement by Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, following weeks of public allegations by social media influencer Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), against AIG Jimoh.
The Ajiran murder case has drawn significant public attention, with the coalition's stance adding to the discourse on the need for due process. As the legal proceedings continue, the coalition's call for restraint underscores the delicate balance between public interest and judicial independence.
