A civil society organisation (CSO) has called on the Inspector General of Police to ensure a fair trial and grant immediate access to legal representation for Mr. Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi, citing concerns over alleged violations of his fundamental rights.
Speaking at a press conference, the CSO leader, Kolawole Emmanuel, stressed the need for due process and transparency in the handling of the case. He urged police authorities to transfer the matter to a neutral and independent investigative unit, noting that such a move would help restore public confidence in the process.
The group expressed concern over the continued supervision of the case by Jimoh Moshood Olorundare, Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Zone 2, arguing that the circumstances surrounding Akanbi’s detention raise questions about impartiality and adherence to established legal procedures.
According to the CSO, the case is connected to a long-standing dispute within the Ojomu Royal Family in Ajiran, Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State, particularly over the control of ancestral lands. The crisis has reportedly divided the community into factions, with Akanbi identified as a key figure as Chairman of the Youth Wing of the royal family.
The organisation further referenced allegations involving individuals such as Bashir Fakorede and senior lawyer Muiz Banire, while maintaining that all claims should be subjected to proper judicial scrutiny rather than handled in a manner that could compromise fairness.
It also pointed to ongoing legal proceedings at the Ikeja High Court, which had reportedly set aside earlier actions taken against Akanbi and directed that due process be followed. The CSO noted that despite these rulings, concerns persist over his arrest outside Nigeria and subsequent detention, during which he has allegedly faced restrictions in accessing his legal team and family.
Emphasising the importance of upholding constitutional rights, the CSO insisted that Akanbi must be given full and unrestricted access to his lawyers and that all investigative steps must align strictly with court directives and the rule of law.
The organisation warned that failure to ensure fairness and transparency in the case could lead to further legal and civic actions, adding that the situation represents a critical test of the integrity of Nigeria’s justice system.
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