In a shocking turn of events, Social Justice and Human Rights groups have expressed grave concerns over the murder of Mr. Abiodun Raji on May 25, 2023, and the subsequent illegal mass demolition of homes, ancient artifacts, mosques, churches, and graveyards within Baale Oke Ogun Elerangbe Ancient Village by the Lagos State Government’s New Town Development Authority (NTDA) in collusion with land grabbers led by Chief Tunde Ogungbo, Alhaji Taiwo Bashiru, Mr. James DPKay, Engr. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, and the Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki LGA, among others.
The groups, dedicated to protecting fundamental rights and the rule of law, called on Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for immediate intervention against the impending 7-day demolition notice.
They highlighted the recent wave of criminal activities, including conspiracy, subversion of justice, trespass to properties, intimidation, land grabbing, forgery, and the tragic murder of Mr. Abiodun Raji.
Expressing disappointment in the lack of attention from authorities, the groups appealed to the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, and the Department of State Security Services for urgent investigation into the murder and related criminalities in the said area.
The situation is said to have been exacerbated by the alleged collusion between land grabbers and Police officers, hindering justice and thorough investigation.
The groups stressed the need for compassion towards the ancient Okeogun Balee Elerangbe Communities, urging the Lagos State Government to grant them a compassionate village excision and gazette.
The press release underscores the urgency of an unbiased investigation into criminal aspects, demanding the exhumation of Mr. Abiodun Raji’s remains for a diligent autopsy and coroner inquest.
The groups asserted that all culpable individuals must face the full force of Nigerian Laws.
Drawing attention to the land grabbers’ collaboration with officials from the Lagos State Ministry of Lands, Physical Planning and Urban Development, the groups call for a thorough investigation and land forensic audit of all allotments during Mr. Bode Agoro’s tenure as PS Lagos State Ministry of Lands.
The statement highlighted the intimidation tactics employed by Engr. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki LGA, and Mr. Bode Agoro, emphasizing the need for their investigation and prosecution.
The groups presented a plea from affected citizens, detailing the oppressive acts, threats, and endangerment they face.
They implored Governor Sanwo-Olu to intervene and protect the indigenous land, stressing its historical significance.
The Executive Project Director, Com. Tunji Balogun, urged swift and thorough investigation, emphasizing that injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.