Lagos State Police Command has arrested four suspects over the alleged mob killing of a motorist, Basit Kolade, following a road traffic incident on Freeman Street, Lagos Island.
The command said the incident occurred at about 10:40 p.m. on Wednesday, September 2, and has since been classified as a homicide case.
According to the police, preliminary findings showed that Kolade was driving a black Lexus SUV with registration number KSF 115 JZ alongside his wife from Ebute Metta towards Lagos Island when a motorcycle reportedly rammed into the rear of the vehicle.
The collision was said to have sparked a disagreement between the occupants of the vehicle and the motorcyclist.
Police said that during the altercation, the Lexus allegedly reversed and struck the motorcycle, causing the rider and the bike to fall.
The development reportedly attracted a crowd, with some individuals allegedly descending on Kolade using dangerous weapons.
While his wife was rescued by women in the neighbourhood, Kolade was rushed to the Lagos Island General Hospital, where doctors later confirmed him dead.
The motorcycle rider involved in the incident survived the crash and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital.
The police said four suspects have so far been arrested in connection with the attack. They were identified as Khalid Rafiq (20), Gafar Rahim (21), Ibrahim Azeez (33) and Samos Momoh (21).
Investigators are also working to identify and apprehend other persons believed to have participated in the assault.
The command disclosed that the matter has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, for a detailed investigation and possible prosecution.
Reacting to the incident, the Lagos State Police Command warned residents against resorting to mob action or jungle justice, stressing that no individual has the legal authority to punish another person outside the provisions of the law.
The command noted that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees every person’s right to life under Section 33, adding that life can only be lawfully taken in circumstances recognised by law.
It further explained that under the Criminal Law of Lagos State, unlawful killing constitutes homicide and may amount to murder or manslaughter depending on the circumstances, with severe penalties prescribed upon conviction.
The police said the warning aligns with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, who has instructed commands nationwide to treat mob attacks resulting in death as homicide cases.
The Inspector-General also warned that anyone who participates in, organises, incites or supports such attacks would face the full weight of the law.
The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, has directed investigators to ensure that every person found culpable in the killing is identified, arrested and prosecuted.
He also assured members of the public that the investigation would be thorough and professional, while all those linked to the fatal attack would be brought to justice.
