HURMA Condemns Attack on Lagos State Task Force Officer in Epe, Demands Urgent Investigation

The Human Rights Monitoring Agenda (HURMA) has strongly condemned the recent attack on an agent of the Lagos State Special Task Force on Land Grabbing (LSSTFLG) in Epe, Lagos State, calling for an urgent investigation and the prosecution of those involved.

This was stated in a letter signed by HURMA’s Executive Director, Comrade Buna Olaitan Isiak, titled: “Alleged Attack on Harmless Officer of LSSTFLG in Epe: Call for Urgent Investigation and Action by Both Local and State Authorities.”

The letter, which was copied to the Lagos State Ministry of Justice and other government agencies, expressed concerns about growing insecurity in the Otara area of Igbooye Community, Eredo LCDA, and its impact on the peace and safety of residents.

Part of the letter read: “We officially express our concerns regarding the increasing insecurity in the Otara area of Igbooye Community, Eredo LCDA, as well as the threats posed to residents by hoodlums allegedly from the Otto Family. We strongly condemn the recent attack on a harmless dispatch staff of the Lagos State Special Task Force on Land Grabbers (LSSTFLG) and urge immediate investigation and decisive action to ensure justice and restore peace to the community.”

The letter recounted the incident, noting that in response to petitions by the Adesada Oganjugbe and Onayemi families of Igbooye, the Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice had directed the LSSTFLG to send invitations for peace and fact-finding meetings to the petitioners, the heads of the two families, and the respondents: Mr. Abdul Rasaq Rafiu, Mr. Jogunomi, Mr. Abiodun Adebayo, Chogon Property Ltd., and Quickspace Property & Investment. Letters were also to be pasted on properties within the disputed Otara land.

On Wednesday, November 20, 2024, state dispatch staff member Mr. Oluwaseyi Fadare visited the site to paste the notices but was reportedly attacked by unidentified individuals stationed on the land.

The letter continued: “During the incident, some of the letters meant to be served were confiscated by these thugs, who issued threats, including the use of dangerous weapons and charms, against the state representative and members of the petitioners present on-site. Thankfully, Mr. Oluwaseyi Fadare managed to escape unharmed.”

HURMA emphasized the urgency of addressing this matter: “It is vital for the authorities and the community to act swiftly to prevent further escalation of such lawlessness, which could have broader implications for the peace and security of the area.”

The organization also stressed the need for justice: “We call for the urgent investigation and prosecution of those responsible, to serve as a deterrent to others who might consider attacking government officials in the performance of their lawful duties.”

HURMA reminded the public that the Lagos State Government, through the office of the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, has reiterated its commitment to prosecuting anyone found assaulting government officials. The organization urged that this commitment be demonstrated through swift and decisive action in this case.