CSOs seek probe of SCID over Lagos prince’s murder case

A coalition of civil society organizations has urged Nigeria's Inspector-General of Police to investigate operatives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti, Yaba, for alleged misconduct. The call stems from concerns over the handling of the murder investigation of Prince Ademola Akinloye, son of the Ajiran of Agungi, Oba Tijani Akinloye, and one Sheriff Salami.

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We call on the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of SCID alongside officers overseeing the D9 and D4 units. Any personnel found culpable should be identified and sanctioned.

The coalition, represented by Femi Lawson of the Centre for Advocacy for Credible Leadership, specifically pointed to alleged acts by officers attached to the Delta Force Unit at SCID that could compromise the investigation. They called for the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of SCID and officers overseeing the D9 and D4 units to be investigated and sanctioned if found culpable, emphasizing the need for strict neutrality and professionalism.

Furthermore, the groups dismissed allegations of corruption and abuse of office leveled against Assistant Inspector-General of Police Olohundare Moshood Jimoh. They described the claims as unfounded and baseless, stating that their review of official records showed Jimoh's actions demonstrated discipline and fidelity to the law. The coalition also called on the Nigerian Correctional Service and the Chief Judge of Lagos State to clarify the custodial status of Ahmed Tajudeen Akanbi, the prime suspect, citing concerns about non-compliance with court orders for his remand.

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We categorically reject recent allegations accusing AIG Olohundare Moshood Jimoh of corruption, bias or abuse of office. After reviewing official records and documented proceedings, we found the claims to be baseless, reckless and intentionally misleading.

According to the coalition, a fresh investigation ordered in January following a petition by the Ojomu Chieftaincy Family yielded new evidence, including eyewitness accounts and confessional statements. This renewed investigation suggested financial sponsorship and orchestration of the killings, and the groups asserted that Akanbi's arrest followed due process.

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We are concerned about reports of non-compliance with court orders directing the remand of the prime suspect at the Ikoyi Custodial Centre. Immediate clarification is required, while all subsisting court orders should be fully enforced.