Man, 61, Docked Alongside 2 Women Over Alleged Public Fight In Ajangbadi

CYRIACUS IZUEKWE 

A quiet Sunday afternoon in Ajangbadi turned chaotic after an argument outside a residential building reportedly escalated into a public brawl. The drama has now landed three residents before an Ojo Magistrate Court in Lagos.

According to the charge sheet marked 0811/46/26, 61-year-old Sunday Asuerimen, 67-year-old Joy Asuerimen, and 43-year-old Helen Orehomeure were arraigned over allegations of conspiracy, assault, and breach of peace. The incident was said to have occurred on March 24, 2026 at House No. 9 Atinga Street, Ajangbadi, in the Ojo Magisterial District.

Prosecutors told the court that the trio and others said to be at large conspired among themselves to commit a misdemeanor. The charge stated that they physically assaulted one another, an act punishable under Section 412 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

The court heard that the disagreement quickly moved from words to action in a public space. Residents who witnessed the scene said voices were raised before things got physical, drawing a crowd of neighbours and passersby.

In the second count, Joy Asuerimen and Helen Orehomeure were accused of taking part in a fight in a public place. The prosecution said this contravenes Section 54 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015, which prohibits public disorder and fighting.

The third count bordered on conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace. All three defendants were alleged to have engaged in a free-for-all fight in public, an offence punishable under Section 168(d) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

The fourth count was specific to assault. Joy Asuerimen was accused of physically assaulting Helen Orehomeure with fist blows. The prosecution said the act violates Section 172 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

The case was prosecuted by the Commissioner of Police. The Investigating Police Officer listed is Titilade Usman of Ilemba Hausa Police Station, Lagos. The Divisional Police Officer, CSP Jacob Jiya Gana, also signed off on the case file.

However, the defendants pleaded not guilty. The prosecutor SP Uche Simeon asked the Court to give a date for hearing to enable the Police to prove the allegations.

The presiding Magistrate, Mr. L.K.J. Layeni, granted the defendants bail in the sum of N300,000 with sureties in like sum, who must show evidence of means of livelihood and tax payment.

The matter was adjourned for mention while the defendant was remanded in Correctional Center pending when they will perfect their bail conditions.

Neighbors in Ajangbadi described the street as usually peaceful, and said the incident came as a surprise to many. Community leaders have since called for calm and for residents to settle disputes through dialogue instead of confrontation.

The court is expected to resume hearing on the adjourned date as investigations continue. Police said efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend other persons said to be at large in connection with the incident.

Legal experts say the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty by the Court of competent jurisdiction.