Wednesday 15th July 2026.
INTRODUCTION
Distinguished members of the press, fellow Nigerians, and advocates of human rights worldwide, we address you today with a profound sense of responsibility and concern.
We appear before you as a united coalition of civil society organisations, including the Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR), which has consistently championed this advocacy since 2023. Our purpose is to draw urgent attention to a troubling pattern of misinformation, media distortion, and calculated attempts to undermine the administration of justice in the murder case involving Sheriff Ishola Salami and Prince Ademola Akinloye in Ajiran, Lagos State.
In recent days, we have observed with grave concern the deliberate use of public platforms to circulate misleading narratives. A coordinated campaign driven by certain commentators and online personalities has sought to distort facts and dangerously reframe a declared fugitive and principal murder suspect, Ahmed Tajudeen Akanbi, as a victim.
These actions are not only irresponsible but they are a direct threat to justice.
We are here to set the record straight, restore integrity to public discourse, and demand strict compliance with the rule of law.
BACKGROUND AND CHRONOLOGY OF EVENTS
The tragic killings of Sheriff Ishola Salami and Prince Ademola Akinloye sent shockwaves through Ajiran and the wider Nigerian society.
Following initial concerns over the pace of investigation, a formal petition dated January 7, 2026, was submitted on behalf of the Ojomu Chieftaincy Family. In response, the Inspector-General of Police issued a directive on January 8, 2026, mandating a comprehensive review and investigation of the case.
This directive was transmitted to the then Commissioner of Police, Lagos State now Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 2, AIG Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, who acted in full compliance by initiating a structured and intelligence-driven investigation.
INVESTIGATION AND ARRESTS
The renewed investigation yielded critical breakthroughs, including:
– Eyewitness testimony detailing the violent attacks
– Confessional statements from arrested suspects establishing operational links
– Corroborative evidence suggesting financial sponsorship and orchestration
The arrest of Ahmed Tajudeen Akanbi was carried out lawfully and transparently, supported by:
– Valid court orders from both the Magistrate Court and the Federal High Court, Lagos
– International collaboration through INTERPOL, leading to his apprehension and return to Nigeria
This process reflects professionalism, due process, and institutional coordination at its best.
REJECTION OF FALSE AND DEFAMATORY NARRATIVES
We categorically reject recent allegations circulating in the public domain accusing AIG Moshood Jimoh of corruption, bias, or abuse of office.
After a thorough review of official records and documented proceedings, we find such claims to be:
– Baseless
– Reckless
– Intentionally misleading
There is no credible evidence to support these accusations. On the contrary, the AIG’s actions demonstrate discipline, professionalism, and fidelity to the law.
We caution individuals and platforms against weaponizing misinformation to obstruct justice.
COMMENDATION OF PROFESSIONAL LEADERSHIP
We commend AIG Olohundare Moshood Jimoh for:
– Upholding professional integrity in a sensitive and high-profile case
– Ensuring adherence to lawful investigative procedures
– Coordinating effectively with international policing bodies
– Reinforcing public trust in the justice system
CONCERNS OVER CONDUCT OF CERTAIN OPERATIVES
Notwithstanding the above, we express serious concern regarding credible reports of unprofessional conduct by certain operatives within the Delta Force Unit at SCID Panti.
Allegations of bias, interference, and actions capable of distorting evidence are deeply troubling.
We therefore call on the Inspector-General of Police to:
– Investigate the conduct of the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of SCID Yaba, DCP Dayo Akinbisehin, alongside officers overseeing D9 and D4 units
– Identify and sanction any personnel found culpable
– Ensure strict neutrality and professionalism in handling this case
We further express concern that the current Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, has remained publicly silent on this matter since assuming office. Such silence, in a case of this magnitude, raises legitimate questions and must be addressed.
CALL FOR INSTITUTIONAL DISCIPLINE AND NON-INTERFERENCE
We call on the Inspector-General of Police to issue clear directives restraining retired officers, including CSP Yetunde Cardoso (rtd.) and CSP Ejiofor, from interfering in or attempting to influence the course of this investigation and prosecution.
The integrity of this case must not be compromised by external or unofficial actors.
CUSTODIAL COMPLIANCE AND CORRECTIONAL CONCERNS
We raise serious concerns regarding apparent non-compliance with court orders directing the remand of Ahmed Tajudeen Akanbi at the Ikoyi Custodial Centre.
We therefore call on:
– The Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service
– The Chief Judge of Lagos State
to provide immediate clarification on this issue.
Additionally, we draw attention to reports of unprofessional conduct within correctional facilities, particularly at Ikoyi Custodial Centres, which must be urgently investigated and addressed.
Failure to uphold custodial directives undermines judicial authority and erodes public confidence.
OUR POSITION AND DEMANDS
– Justice must be served for Sheriff Ishola Salami and Prince Ademola Akinloye
– No suspect, regardless of influence, must evade accountability
– Law enforcement agencies must operate free from intimidation or manipulation
– Public discourse must be anchored on verified facts
Furthermore, we demand:
– Immediate transparency regarding the custodial status of the prime suspect
– Full enforcement of all subsisting court orders
– Disciplinary action against any officer found compromising the investigation
– Institutional safeguards against interference by serving or retired personnel
CONCLUSION
This case represents a defining moment for the Nigerian justice system.
It is a test of whether truth can withstand manipulation, whether institutions can resist pressure, and whether justice can prevail over influence.
We stand firmly with the victims.
We stand resolutely for justice.
And we will not relent until accountability is achieved.
Justice must not be delayed.
Justice must not be denied.
SIGNED FOR AND ON BEHALF OF THE COALITION OF CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS:
* Femi Lawnson
Coordinator,
Centre for Advocacy for Credible Leadership (CACL)
* Olatunde Owoeye-Wise
Centre for Physically Challenged and Human Rights (CPCHR)
* Balogun Adewale
Convener, Mekunukoya
* Razaq Olokoba
Convener, Campaign for Dignity in Governance
* Comrade Shina Loremikan
Convener, Campaign Against Impunity
* Comrade Ewajane Osowo
Secretary,
Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR)
* Mrs. Kehinde Jones
Coordinator,
Care and Justice for Women and Children
Suleiman Ibrahim
Coordinator
Voice of the Masdes
