Five policemen under investigation over Owode Onirin Market clash

Five policemen are under investigation for allegedly aiding a notorious land grabber in a violent Owode Onirin Market clash that left five traders dead and several injured

The Lagos State Police Command has initiated a thorough investigation into five police officers allegedly involved in facilitating a violent land grab at Owode Onirin Market in Ikorodu.

The clash, which occurred amidst ongoing disputes over ownership of the land, left five traders dead and several others injured, sparking outrage across the community.

According to police sources, the officers under investigation include Insp. Banu Bala, Insp. Ahmed Abass, Cpl. Ibrahim Garba, Cpl. Ibrahim Kasimu—each attached to the 58 PMF Lafia, Nasarawa State—and Insp. Jibrin Samaila of 20 PMF Ikeja.

The policemen are reported to have been illegally procured by Abiodun Ariori, a well-known land speculator, to provide security and facilitate the unlawful takeover of the market land.

Eyewitnesses and local reports indicated that the conflict escalated when Ariori and his armed accomplices stormed the disputed site.

Prior to this, several shops and buildings on the land had already been demolished, heightening tensions among traders and residents.

As Ariori’s group attempted to resume construction work, displaced traders confronted them, leading to a violent altercation.

The clash turned deadly within minutes. Five traders, identified as Adewale Onimoma (32), Salawu Mufutau (30), Taiye Adeoye (34), and two others whose identities are yet to be confirmed, were fatally injured during the violence.

Insp. Jibrin Samaila, one of the policemen implicated in the incident, was also severely wounded and is currently receiving critical care at a Lagos hospital.

The intensity of the confrontation left residents traumatized and fearful for their safety.

In response to the crisis, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, personally coordinated the deployment of reinforcements to Owode Onirin.

The swift police intervention helped restore calm and prevent further escalation, allowing the community to begin recovery from the shocking events.

Meanwhile, Abiodun Ariori has been declared wanted by the police over his alleged involvement in the deadly clash.

Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident, with a promise to hold all individuals—both civilians and law enforcement officers—accountable for any wrongdoing.

The tragic events at Owode Onirin Market have reignited debates on illegal land acquisitions, the safety of traders, and the role of law enforcement in protecting citizens versus enabling criminal activity.

Community leaders and human rights advocates are calling for immediate action to prevent such violent incidents from recurring in Lagos State.