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By Christopher Oji
A Lagos chief, Baale of Lotu community, Epe, Fatai Jubril, 43, has been allegedly murdered by another traditional leader, during a land dispute at the weekend.
It was alleged that the Baale (nameswitheld), led by some thugs numbering over 40, accosted the deceased and took him in handcuffs to the disputed land in Museyo, Epe. It was gathered that the thugs were accompanied by security operatives in mufti who handcuffed Jubril.
A family source told journalists that trouble started when Jubril resisted being handcuffed and he was beaten and subdued by the thugs accompanying some security men in mufti before taking him to the land in dispute.
The source said that at the disputed land, those loyal to Jubril wanted to secure his release, but a serious crisis ensued and there was exchange of gunfire, during which Jubril was shot dead.
The source said Jubril died on the spot, fuelling speculation that his abductors had the intention of killing him as he was shot in the head at a close range.
A senior police officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the police have commenced a serious manhunt for Baale, the alleged mastermind of the murder.
“We have also started an investigation to know the yet-to-be identified officers in mufti, who handcuffed the deceased and accompanied the mastermind of the crisis to the land. Yes, there was a land dispute between two Baales at Museyo.
“One of them, with the help of some security men and over 40 thugs, captured the deceased, handcuffed him and eventually shot him in the head. The mastermind is on the run, but we have stepped up the manhunt for the baale and his thugs.
The dead body of Baale Jubril has been deposited at Epe General Hospital Morgue for autopsy. We have met with the community and its leaders. We are investigating.
The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Benjamin Hundeyin, said he was yet to be briefed on the incident.
