Alleged Alimosho Killing: Lagos Police Boss Receives Petition From Rights Group, HURMA, Set for Action – News Edge
The Human Rights Monitoring Agenda (HURMA Global Resource Initiative) has forwarded a petition to the office of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, for urgent intervention to investigate the alleged killing of Michael Ajayi, a member of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, in the Ipaja area of Lagos State by a prominent politician, Abiodun Ejigbadero, on April 16, 2024.
The petition, sent on Monday, May 6, 2024, and signed by the Executive Director of HURMA, Comrade Buna Olaitan Isiak raises serious concerns about the safety and well-being of the Alimosho community. These concerns were initially highlighted by the Paramount Ruler of the community, Chief Adedayo Badeyemo Oki.
The petition which was also sent to the office of Inspector General of Police, is titled: “Petition Regarding Alleged Murder of Ajayi Michael by Abiodun Ejigbadero and His Accomplices.”
The petition reads:
“We write to bring to your attention the serious matter of the alleged murder of Ajayi Michael, a transporter, by Abiodun Ejigbadero and his accomplices in Alimosho LCDA, Lagos State.
“As a mass-based NGO and anti-corruption body committed to equity and justice, the Human Rights Monitoring Agenda (HURMA Global Resource Initiative) is deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of the Alimosho community. Concerns have been raised by the paramount ruler of the community, Chief Adedayo Badeyemo Oki (Baale of Oki Kingdom – Ilufemiloye 1), and residents regarding the violent actions of Abiodun Ejigbadero and his group.
“Ejigbadero, a prominent figure in the ruling APC government in Lagos State, has been accused of terrorizing landlords, shop owners, and other residents by imposing levies, fines, and inflicting physical harm. He claims to be the Baale and owner of all land in the area.
“Despite widespread complaints and calls for action, the government and law enforcement agencies appear unable to hold Ejigbadero accountable. On April 16, 2024, Ejigbadero led a group of armed thugs to attack members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers at the Iyana Ipaja branch. This attack resulted in the death of Ajayi Michael and injuries to others.
“The police have arrested and released key individuals involved, including Ejigbadero, the local council chairman, and others. However, no substantial actions have been taken to pursue justice for the deceased and his family.
“Ejigbadero’s ongoing criminal activities, including a pending case for forgery, perjury, and impersonation in a Lagos court, highlight the urgent need for intervention.
“We respectfully request your immediate action to ensure that justice is served for Ajayi Michael and his family. Your leadership is crucial in curbing the excesses of Ejigbadero and his group and ensuring a thorough investigation and prosecution”.
