Lagos Police Dismiss Four Officers in Aftermath of Owode‑Onirin Market Killings!
Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan, Editor‑in‑Chief | Sele Media Africa
LAGOS, Nigeria — The Lagos State Police Command has announced the dismissal of four police officers believed to be involved in the fatal shooting of seven traders at the Owode‑Onirin Motor Spare Parts Market, a development that has reignited public scrutiny of law enforcement conduct and accountability.
Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olohundare Jimoh, confirmed the decision at a press briefing held on Thursday at the Police Officers’ Mess in Ikeja. According to Jimoh, the officers — reportedly brought from Nasarawa State by a principal suspect identified as “Ariori” — were implicated in the unlawful killings that occurred during a violent confrontation at the market.
Jimoh described the dismissals as part of ongoing efforts to ensure accountability and uphold the rule of law. He said ballistic and autopsy reports have guided the direction of the investigation, which he described as 98 percent complete, and vowed that all suspects would face prosecution as judicial processes unfold.
“This matter has not been swept under the carpet,” the police chief told journalists, stressing that neither public pressure nor private influence would deter the force from delivering justice to the victims’ families and affected communities. He reiterated that the courts remain open to try all accused individuals and that the Nigeria Police Force is committed to its constitutional mandate of maintaining law and order.
The incident, which has drawn criticism from civil society groups and market stakeholders, dates back to a clash in August 2025 between law enforcement personnel and individuals described locally as land grabbers engaged in a protracted dispute over market space. Eyewitness accounts at the time reported extensive property damage and heightened tension between security forces and traders.
Human rights advocates have long raised concerns about the use of excessive force by police during operations, particularly in densely populated commercial areas where civilians are at risk. The Owode‑Onirin episode underscores broader calls for systemic reforms within the Nigeria Police Force, including enhanced training on crowd control, conflict de‑escalation, and community engagement.
While the dismissed officers await prosecution, Commissioner Jimoh urged residents and traders to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to ensure safety across Lagos markets. Legal observers note that the final adjudication of this case could set important precedents for accountability and police‑community relations in Africa’s largest city.
Sources:
- PUNCH — Four police officers sacked over killing of seven traders – Lagos CP
- Daily Post Nigeria — Four police officers dismissed over killing of seven traders in Lagos
- Ripples Nigeria — 4 police officers dismissed over Lagos traders killing
Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.
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