By Our Correspondent
National News – The Lagos State Ministry of Justice has freed four police officers and a developer accused of killing six traders in Owode Onirin, Kosofe area of Lagos, after legal advice ruled they acted in self-defence.
The decision, issued by the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), followed a review of evidence surrounding the fatal incident that occurred during a disputed land enforcement operation.
According to the DPP, led by Babajide Martins, the suspects—identified as Musa Bala, Ahmed Abass, Ibrahim Kasimu, and Ibrahim Garba—were attacked by a mob while carrying out their duties.
One officer was reportedly injured and disarmed.
The legal advice concluded there was no prima facie case to support charges of manslaughter, citing lack of forensic evidence such as autopsy reports, ballistic analysis, and weapon examinations linking the officers to the deaths.
The incident, which led to the deaths of six traders, reportedly happened when the officers were brought from Nasarawa by developer Abiodun Ariori to enforce a court-backed land claim.
Chaos erupted, resulting in the fatal shootings. While Ariori was initially detained, he was later granted bail after authorities stated he was not present at the scene during the violence.
However, the decision has sparked controversy. The Nigeria Police Force, through Deputy Commissioner of Police Dayo Akinbisehin, insists there is sufficient evidence for prosecution.
The police claim autopsy and ballistic reports from the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital and Force CID directly link the suspects to the killings and have urged the DPP to revisit the case.
Reacting, human rights lawyer Femi Falana vowed to challenge the outcome.
He stated that his legal team would submit additional evidence and pursue justice for the victims, including filing a civil suit for compensation on behalf of the bereaved families.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about accountability, use of force, and justice in Nigeria’s law enforcement system.
