A Lagos State Magistrate Court has cautioned the Lagos State Police Command and directed that proper procedures be followed in the handling of the case involving Mr. Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi, also known as Hammed Ajiran, in what is seen as a setback for individuals including Bashir Fakorede, Jide Akinloye, and Assistant Inspector-General of Police, AIG Jimoh Moshood.
Presiding over proceedings in the Ogba Magisterial District, Magistrate A. J. Odueke, in Charge No: MISC/126/2026, held that the police must formally invite Akanbi rather than declare him wanted. The Court further stated that an order for arrest would only be considered if he fails to honour such an invitation.
The Court noted that it was mindful of previous proceedings in Charge No: MCIK/60A/2026, where a similar application had earlier been set aside by another Magistrate on March 23, 2026, on the grounds of illegality. Consequently, the Court declined to entertain what it described as a repetition of a defective process.
According to the Court, the actions sought by the applicants appeared to fall short of due process, and the judiciary would not lend its authority to what it described as irregular procedures.
The case stems from an ongoing dispute involving Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi, who is alleged to have been targeted following his role in leading the youth wing of the Ojomu Royal Family of Ajiran in Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State. The group has reportedly been advocating for accountability from elders of the family over long-standing issues relating to the sale of family land.
It is alleged that, in response to these activities, some members of the opposing camp have initiated various allegations against Akanbi and other youth members, which his supporters describe as frivolous and retaliatory in nature.
The Court’s ruling is seen as a reinforcement of procedural safeguards, emphasizing that law enforcement agencies must adhere strictly to due process in matters involving citizens.
