The leadership of Human Rights Monitoring Agenda (HURMA Global Resource Initiative), a non-governmental organisation and anti-corruption centre, has forwarded a petition to the office of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, among several offices, to investigate the alleged killing of Michael Ajayi, a member of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), in Ipaja, Lagos State, by a prominent politician, Abiodun Ejigbadero, on April 16, 2024.
The petition, sent on Monday, May 6, 2024, and signed by the Executive Director, HURMA, Buna Olaitan Isiak, raised concerns about the safety and wellbeing of citizens in the Alimosho community. The paramount ruler of the community, Chief Adedayo Badeyemo Oki, initially highlighted the concerns.
The document, titled, “Petition Regarding Alleged Murder of Ajayi Michael by Abiodun Ejigbadero and his accomplices,” read in part: “We write to bring to your attention the serious matter of the alleged murder of Ajayi Michael, a transporter, by Abiodun Ejigbadero and his accomplices in Alimosho LCDA, Lagos State.
“As a mass-based NGO and anti-corruption body committed to equity and justice, the Human Rights Monitoring Agenda, is deeply concerned about the safety and wellbeing of the Alimosho community. Concerns have been raised by the paramount ruler of the community, Chief Adedayo Badeyemo Oki, Ilufemiloye I, Baale of Oki Kingdom, and residents regarding the violent actions of Ejigbadero and his group.
“The police have arrested and released key individuals involved, including Ejigbadero, the local council chairman, and others. However, no substantial actions have been taken to pursue justice for the deceased and his family.
“Ejigbadero’s ongoing criminal activities, including a pending case for forgery, perjury and impersonation in a Lagos court, highlight the urgent need for intervention. We respectfully request your immediate action to ensure that justice is served for Ajayi Michael and his family. Your leadership is crucial in curbing the excesses of Ejigbadero and his group and ensuring a thorough investigation and prosecution.”