Residents of the Igbehin, Agbowa-Ikosi community in Ikosi-Ejirin Local Council Development Area, Lagos State, along with the Keshiro family, have urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to ensure justice prevails in the alleged murder of Idowu Keshiro, a security guard.
The call follows accusations that some community members were involved in Keshiro’s death and claims of attempts to manipulate the judicial process in favor of the suspects.
Concerns Over Justice Subversion
In a petition filed through their lawyer, Moses Tawose, the Keshiro family raised alarms over efforts to secure the unconditional release of suspects already arrested and arraigned at the Ogba Magistrate Court.
A legal advisory from the Lagos State Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP) corroborates the family’s concerns. Addressed to the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), and dated September 2, 2024, the advisory highlights sufficient evidence linking the suspects to crimes, including conspiracy to commit felony, conspiracy to commit murder, murder, attempted murder, and rioting, as defined under the Criminal Law Cap. Ch. Vol. 3, Laws of Lagos State 2015.
Allegations of Political Influence
The Keshiro family accused relatives of the suspects of boasting about their ability to use political connections or financial influence to secure an unconditional release. They fear that such efforts could lead to the invocation of constitutional prerogative powers to set the suspects free during the upcoming court session on November 26, 2024.
The petition, also addressed to the Lagos State Attorney General, the Chief Judge of Lagos State, and the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, stated:
“Our client has informed us that a brother of one of the defendants continues to boast about having political connections that could lead to the unconditional release of the defendants.”
Threats Against the Family
Akeem Keshiro, the elder brother of the deceased, disclosed that he has been receiving threats for seeking justice. He alleged that thugs loyal to the suspects have been openly claiming to have bribed officials to secure a favorable outcome.
“Their thugs have been threatening us, saying they are just waiting for the next court date when the defendants will be released. We appeal to Governor Sanwo-Olu to intervene and ensure justice is served,” Keshiro said.
The family and community continue to call for the governor’s intervention to prevent any miscarriage of justice and uphold the rule of law.
