The Lagos State Police Command has formally arraigned Wasiu Akinwande, popularly known as Olori Eso, a suspected hired assassin and alleged gang leader, on an 11-count charge including murder, unlawful possession of firearms, and conspiracy to commit felony.
The arraignment took place on Tuesday at the Ogba Magistrate Court, Lagos, marking a major milestone in one of the most high-profile criminal cases in recent times. The charges stem from Akinwande’s alleged leadership of a deadly criminal syndicate responsible for over a decade of violent crimes in Lagos, especially within the Mushin axis.
The development was announced by the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, who confirmed the arraignment via his official account on X (formerly Twitter):
“Wasiu Akinwande aka Olori Eso is currently being arraigned at the Ogba Magistrate Court on an eleven-count charge,” Hundeyin wrote.
Arrest of Lagos’ Most Wanted Killer
Akinwande, 44, was apprehended in July 2025 after years of evading capture. He was arrested at his hideout in Agbado, a border town in neighbouring Ogun State, during a covert tactical operation dubbed “Silence, Speed and Surprise”. The operation was executed by the Command’s Tactical Squad following months of surveillance.
The police described him as the most wanted, vicious, and notorious hired killer in the history of Lagos State. His gang is alleged to have committed a series of heinous crimes, including contract killings, armed robberies, cult clashes, and kidnappings, that have left a trail of grief and fear across multiple communities.
Shocking Cache of Weapons Recovered
During the raid on Akinwande’s residence, police recovered a significant arsenal of weapons and equipment believed to have been used in various criminal operations. The items retrieved include:
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Two (2) AK-47 rifles
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One (1) K2 assault rifle
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One (1) Red Ryder rifle
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Three (3) pump-action rifles
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Two (2) locally made single-barrel pistols
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Five (5) magazines
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57 live cartridges
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70 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition
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27 rounds of 9mm ammunition
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One (1) expended 5.56mm round
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One (1) dagger
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Three (3) walkie-talkies
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Nine (9) international passports belonging to different individuals
SP Hundeyin stated that the suspect admitted to using these weapons in multiple killings and robberies orchestrated alongside his gang.
“This arrest represents a major breakthrough in the Lagos State Police Command’s ongoing crackdown on violent crime. Olori Eso’s capture has ended the reign of one of the most feared criminal elements in recent memory,” Hundeyin said.
Victims and Witnesses Come Forward
Following the arrest, four families have reportedly identified Akinwande as the man responsible for the deaths of their loved ones. The police have assured the public that more victims and witnesses are expected to come forward as investigations deepen.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Moshood Jimoh, has ordered an expanded investigation, directing the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to lead a crack team of detectives in rounding up other gang members and accomplices.
“We are pursuing every lead. All individuals connected to this suspect will be tracked down and prosecuted,” a senior police official confirmed.
Public Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
The police have emphasised that Akinwande’s decade-long reign of terror inflicted “trauma, horror, and grief” on families and communities across Lagos. His arrest and prosecution are being hailed as a major victory in the state’s fight against violent organised crime.
Despite his court appearance, the police say investigations remain active, and more charges could be filed as new evidence emerges. Authorities are also appealing to the public to assist with credible information that could help dismantle the remnants of his criminal network.
The case has now been adjourned as prosecutors prepare to move for a full criminal trial in the coming weeks.
