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- Safiu Kehinde
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested four suspects linked to a mob action which allegedly led to the death of a man identified as Basit Kolade.
Basit was allegedly attacked by a group of individuals following a road traffic incident at Freeman Street, Lagos Island, at about 10:40p.m last week Wednesday.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday by the command’s spokesperson, Adebisi Abimbola.
According to Abimbola, preliminary investigation revealed that Kolade was travelling with his spouse, from Ebute Metta towards Lagos Island in a black Lexus Jeep, with registration number KSF 115 JZ, when a motorcycle allegedly collided with the vehicle from behind.
“An argument reportedly ensued between both of them. In the course of the incident, the vehicle allegedly reversed and hit the motorcycle, causing the rider and the motorcycle to fall.
“This reportedly attracted a group of individuals in the area, who allegedly attacked Basit with dangerous weapons.
“His spouse was rescued by some women in the vicinity, while Kolade was rushed to the Lagos Island General Hospital, where he was subsequently confirmed dead.
“The motorcycle rider who was allegedly hit in the incident is, however, alive and currently receiving medical treatment in a hospital.” The police spokesperson wrote.
Abimbola said four suspects have so far been arrested in connection with the attack.
The suspects were identified as Khalid Rafiq ‘m’ 20 years; Gafar Rahim ‘m’ 21 years; Ibrahim Azeez ‘m’ 33 years; and Samos Momoh ‘m’ 21 years.
Efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest other persons who allegedly participated in the attack.
The Command has commenced an investigation into the incident, which is being treated as a homicide case, and the matter has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, for further investigation and appropriate legal action.
It reiterated that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, guarantees every person the fundamental right to life under Section 33.
“The Constitution permits deprivation of life only in circumstances specifically recognised by law.
“Similarly, under the Criminal Law of Lagos State, unlawful killing constitutes an offence of homicide.
“The law provides that unlawful killing may amount to murder or manslaughter depending on the circumstances. In particular, the provisions on murder cover unlawful killing with the intention to kill or cause grievous harm, with the law prescribing severe punishment upon conviction.” The statement read further.
The Command therefore warns members of the public against mob action, jungle justice, and the resort to self-help under any circumstance.