Four police officers have been remanded in custody over the alleged killing of six traders at Owode Onirin International Spare Parts Market.
The Ebute Metta Chief Magistrates’ Court ordered the officers — Msanu Bala (41), Jibrin Samaila (47), Ibrahim Garuba (29), and Ibrahim Kashimu (26) — to be held at Kirikiri Custodial Centre pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
The accused face a seven-count charge of conspiracy and murder following the attack, which reportedly occurred on August 27, 2025, around 9:00 a.m.
Police prosecutor O.W. Ologun told the court the officers, along with others still at large, allegedly shot several traders dead using AK-47 rifles.
According to the charge sheet, the victims included Bamidele Dare Mufutau, Adebayo Adewale Mathew, Adeoye Taiye, Abraham Idowu Temilola, Akinboye Oluwaseyi Olamilekan, and Akeem Aderemi Adeoye.
The prosecutor said the offences contravened Sections 223 and 233 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.
Mr. Ologun added that the suspects were brought before the court to secure a remand order while awaiting the DPP’s advice, which will determine whether a prima facie case has been established.
Defence counsel Azuri Ejiofor opposed the remand, arguing that the officers had spent more than five months in detention. “My lord, the defendants have been in custody for over five months,” he said.
However, Chief Magistrate E. Kubeinje granted the prosecution’s request and ordered the remand. The case was adjourned until April 15, 2026, for mention.
The incident has continued to stir outrage among traders and Lagos residents, reigniting calls for justice and accountability in the city’s law enforcement.
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