Four officers of the Nigeria Police Force have been dismissed from service over their alleged involvement in the killing of seven traders in the Owode-Onirin area of Lagos State.
The development was confirmed by the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, while speaking with journalists at the Police Officers’ Mess Ikeja on Thursday. According to the commissioner, investigations into the tragic incident are still ongoing, although significant progress has already been made.
Jimoh explained that the officers were dismissed following preliminary findings linking them to the violent episode that resulted in the deaths of the traders. He noted that the police authorities had taken the disciplinary action as part of efforts to ensure accountability and maintain public confidence in law enforcement institutions.
According to the commissioner, the dismissed officers were allegedly recruited from Nasarawa State by the principal suspect identified as “Ariori.” The suspect is believed to have played a major role in the killings and is currently under investigation by the authorities.
Jimoh said investigators were working to unravel the full circumstances surrounding the incident and determine the extent of the involvement of each suspect. He stressed that the police leadership was committed to ensuring that those responsible for the killings would face the full weight of the law.
“This matter has not been swept under the carpet, and we want the public and all the families of the victims to know that nobody can stop us from ensuring that justice is done,” Jimoh said.
He assured the public that the investigation was being handled with utmost seriousness and professionalism. According to him, the police would not allow any form of interference that could undermine the pursuit of justice.
“We will leave no stone unturned and will not be intimidated by anyone,” the commissioner stated. “All suspects will be prosecuted, and the courts remain open to hear every case.”
Jimoh also disclosed that the investigation had reached an advanced stage, revealing that approximately 98 percent of the investigative process had been completed. He added that the remaining steps were largely procedural and would lead to the prosecution of those implicated in the crime.
The police chief further explained that investigators had relied on forensic analysis to strengthen the case, including ballistic examinations and autopsy reports. These scientific findings, he said, have played a crucial role in clarifying how the victims were killed and identifying the weapons allegedly used in the attack.
He emphasised that the police were determined to rely on credible evidence to ensure that any prosecution arising from the case would stand up to scrutiny in court.
Jimoh reiterated that the Nigeria Police Force remained fully committed to its constitutional responsibility of maintaining law and order across Lagos State. He said the command would continue to take decisive action against any officer found to have engaged in criminal conduct.
According to him, the dismissal of the four officers demonstrates that the police institution does not tolerate misconduct or abuse of power among its personnel.
The commissioner also assured residents that measures were being taken to enhance security across communities in the state, particularly in areas where traders and business owners operate.
He urged members of the public, especially traders and residents in the affected communities, to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing useful information that could assist ongoing investigations.
Jimoh said the police command would continue working closely with community leaders and stakeholders to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure that commercial activities are conducted in a safe environment.
The tragic incident occurred in August 2025 during a violent clash involving suspected land grabbers and traders in the Owode-Onirin area. The confrontation reportedly escalated quickly, leading to the deaths of seven traders and sparking widespread outrage among residents and business operators in the community.
The killings prompted calls from civil society groups and community leaders for a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible. Many residents had expressed concern about the growing influence of land grabbers in parts of Lagos and the violence often associated with disputes over land ownership.
With the dismissal of the four officers and the near completion of the investigation, authorities say the case is moving toward prosecution. The police leadership has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that justice is served and that the families of the victims receive closure.
