Rights Group, CHSR, Raises Alarm Over Ajiran Double Murder Trial, Urges Swift Prosecution

The Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR) has expressed concern over what it described as emerging procedural issues in the ongoing investigation and prosecution of suspects linked to the murders of two Ajiran indigenes, Mr. Sheriff Ishola Salami and Prince Kazeem Ademola Akinloye, calling for an expedited trial and strict adherence to the rule of law.

Addressing a press conference on Monday, CHSR President, Comrade Alex Omotehinse, said that the case had become a test of the integrity of Nigeria's justice system and the ability of law enforcement agencies to ensure accountability.

According to the organisation, the killings of Salami in April 2023 and Akinloye in August 2024 underscored the threat posed by organised violence and the need for effective institutional responses.

CHSR recalled that the immediate past Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, now Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Moshood Olohundare Jimoh, had during a media briefing on February 19, 2026, disclosed that the declaration of Alhaji Ahmed Tajudeen Akanbi as a wanted person followed the arrest and confessional statements of two principal suspects allegedly linked to the crimes.

The rights group said that the police identified some suspects, who were arrested on January 24 and February 6, 2026, respectively, after investigations into the killings were reopened.

According to CHSR, the police alleged that the suspects confessed to participating in the murder of Sheriff Salami, who was killed on April 18, 2023, in Moba Town, Eti-Osa, as well as the killing of Prince Ademola Akinloye, son of the Ojomu of Ajiran Land, who was shot dead along Chevron Road, Ajiran, on August 26, 2024.

The organisation further cited the police account, which alleged that Salami was ambushed by armed men, taken to an isolated building, restrained and fatally shot before the attackers fled the scene.

It added that investigators also alleged that the suspects implicated Alhaji Ahmed Tajudeen Akanbi as the sponsor of the operations, claiming they were promised financial rewards and other benefits.

While acknowledging the significance of the police investigation, CHSR expressed concern over delays in the prosecution process, warning that prolonged proceedings could create opportunities for justice to be compromised.

The group also criticised what it described as attempts by some individuals and organisations to undermine the investigation through public campaigns and legal actions aimed at securing the release of suspects before trial.

According to Omotehinse, such actions amount to interference with the administration of justice and could erode public confidence in the rule of law.

CHSR also raised concerns over the conduct of operatives attached to the Delta Force Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, during court proceedings on June 4, 2026.

The organisation alleged that the operatives directed members of the victims' families to remove a bus belonging to the Ojomu Royal Family from the court premises over claims that surveillance devices had been installed in it, while supporters of one of the suspects were allegedly allowed to move freely around the court complex.

It described the development as troubling and called for professionalism and neutrality in the handling of the matter.

The group urged the new Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, to ensure that the suspects are promptly arraigned before a court of competent jurisdiction and that the trial proceeds without unnecessary delay.

It also called for increased security presence in the Ajiran community to ease tensions and reassure residents as the judicial process continues.

CHSR maintained that the case represents more than a criminal prosecution, describing it as a defining moment for justice, institutional credibility and public confidence in the legal system.

The organisation pledged to continue monitoring the proceedings and engaging relevant stakeholders until the matter is brought to what it described as a lawful and just conclusion.

Speaking at the event, Mrs. Adeola Akinloye-Ogundimu, younger sister of the late Prince Ademola Akinloye, said that the family was still struggling to come to terms with the loss but remained committed to pursuing justice through lawful means.

"We cannot get over it, but we thank God that he left behind a good legacy. He was a good man and easy-going," she said.

She added that despite what she described as intimidation directed at members of her family and residents of Ajiran, they remained resolute in their demand for justice.

"Whatever intimidation is on the ground, my siblings, my father and the people of Ajiranland want nothing but justice to prevail. We believe that light will overcome darkness and our light will definitely shine," she stated.

According to her, the alleged intimidation affects both young and old members of the community and has become a frequent occurrence.

Mrs. Akinloye-Ogundimu further alleged that the intimidation was connected to supporters of Alhaji Ahmed Akanbi Tajudeen, a suspect in the case, claiming that residents perceived to be unsupportive of the group often faced attacks.

Also speaking at the briefing, an activist, Comrade Sina Loremikan urged the public and relevant institutions to ensure that justice is served in the matter.

He expressed concern over reports of campaigns and demonstrations seeking the release of an individual accused in connection with the killings, arguing that the judicial process should be allowed to run its course.

"I am surprised that after a man has been alleged to have committed two murders in broad daylight, there are still calls for him to be free," Loremikan said.

He also criticised reports of plans for a mass rally in support of the suspect, saying that such actions could send the wrong message to younger generations about accountability and justice.

Loremikan appealed to Nigerians to stand with the families of the victims and use lawful means to oppose injustice and prevent similar incidents in the future.

The press conference formed part of CHSR's continued advocacy for accountability and the diligent prosecution of those facing trial in connection with the Ajiran murder cases.