The Lagos State Police Command on Monday confirmed that four suspects involved in a mob action which allegedly led to the death of one Basit Kolade are currently assisting the Police with investigation.
Basit Kolade died following a reported attack on him by a group of individuals at Freeman Street, Lagos Island, on Wednesday, 2nd September 2026.
The Police Spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, disclosed that the suspects; Khalid Rafiq ‘m’ 20 years; Gafar Rahim ‘m’ 21 years; Ibrahim Azeez ‘m’ 33 years; and Samos Momoh ‘m’ 21 years are currently assisting the Police with investigation.
A report about the incident has it that the vehicle Basit Kolade and his spouse were travelling in from Ebute Metta towards Lagos Island in a black Lexus Jeep, with registration number KSF 115 JZ, when a motorcycle allegedly collided with the vehicle from behind.
The vehicle allegedly reversed and hit the motorcycle, causing the rider and the motorcycle to fall.
An argument reportedly ensued between both of them.
It was gathered that a group of individuals in the area allegedly attacked Basit with dangerous weapons.
The Police said Kolade was rushed to the Lagos Island General Hospital, where he was subsequently confirmed dead.
His spouse was rescued by some women around the area.
Police say efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest other persons who allegedly participated in the attack.
The Command has commenced an investigation into the incident, which is being treated as a homicide case.
Also, it was learnt that the matter has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, Panti, for further investigation and appropriate legal action.
Meanwhile, the Command reiterated that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, guarantees every person the fundamental right to life under Section 33.
It also noted that the Constitution permits deprivation of life only in circumstances specifically recognised by law.
It also highlighted that the Criminal Law of Lagos State, unlawful killing constitutes an offence of homicide.
And the law provides that unlawful killing may amount to murder or manslaughter depending on the circumstances.
Specifically, the provisions on murder cover unlawful killing with the intention to kill or cause grievous harm, with the law prescribing severe punishment upon conviction.
The Command therefore warns members of the public against mob action, jungle justice, and the resort to self-help under any circumstance. No individual or group has the legal authority to arrest, try, convict, or execute another person.
The warning is consistent with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, who has directed Police Commands to treat cases involving mob action resulting in death as homicide and warned that persons who participate in, organise, incite, or support such attacks will face the full weight of the law.
The Command reiterated that suspicion or an allegation of wrongdoing does not confer on anyone the right to take the law into their own hands.
The Police urged members of the public to promptly report criminal incidents and allow the law to take its course.
The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Tijani Fatai, has directed that all persons found culpable in the incident be identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Police boss assured members of the public that the investigation will be thorough and professional, and that all persons found to have participated in the attack or otherwise contributed to the death will be made to face the law.
