By: Manoah Kikekon
Lagos, Nigeria – A human rights organization is demanding immediate action from authorities after a violent clash between traders and alleged land grabbers at the Owode-Onirin Motor Spare Parts Market turned deadly, leaving four people dead and a police officer critically injured.
The Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR) has condemned the killings, describing the event as a "barbaric massacre." The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, caused significant road blockages and brought commercial activity in the area to a halt.
At a press conference in Lagos, CHSR President Alex Omotehinse expressed deep outrage and outlined the group's demands. He alleged that the violence was instigated by a notorious land grabber who mobilized armed thugs and police officers to storm the market.
“This tragedy followed the earlier illegal demolition of over 1,000 shops at the market, despite the matter being *sub judice* at the Lagos High Court,” Omotehinse stated.
The CHSR is calling for: The immediate arrest and prosecution of the alleged land grabber for murder and terrorism. Full compensation for the families of the deceased. Medical support for injured traders. A permanent security presence to protect the market from future attacks.
The identification, investigation, and dismissal of any police officers found complicit in the attack.
The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed the deployment of a combined tactical team to quell the violence. Police Spokesman Benjamin Hundeyin announced that one suspect, Abiodun Ariori (CEO of Prosperous Ariori Golden Venture Limited), has been declared wanted in connection with the deadly clash.
One of the victims was identified as Adebayo Adewale. His brother, Arowojobe Adewale, recounted the traumatic event, explaining that Adebayo was shot and killed while out buying food. He joined the calls for Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene, stressing that those responsible must be brought to justice.
The CHSR alleges that petitions and SOS messages sent to the Governor and the Lagos State Assembly prior to the incident were ignored, emboldening the land grabbers and paving the way for the bloodshed.