By Mahmoud
Four people have been arrested by the Lagos State Police Command over the death of Basit Kolade, who was allegedly lynched on Lagos Island just weeks before his wedding.
The incident happened around 10:40pm on Wednesday, September 2, on Freeman Street. According to police spokesperson Abimbola Adebisi, Kolade was in a black Lexus Jeep with his spouse when a motorcycle collided with the vehicle from behind. An argument followed, and the Jeep reportedly reversed and hit the motorcycle, causing the rider to fall.
The clash drew a crowd, who allegedly attacked Kolade with dangerous weapons. His spouse was pulled to safety by women in the area. Kolade was rushed to Lagos Island General Hospital where he was confirmed dead. The motorcycle rider survived and is receiving treatment.
Police identified the four suspects as Khalid Rafiq, 20; Gafar Rahim, 21; Ibrahim Azeez, 33; and Samos Momoh, 21. The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, and is being treated as homicide. Efforts are ongoing to arrest other persons linked to the attack.
Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, directed that all culpable persons be identified and prosecuted. The Command restated that Section 33 of the 1999 Constitution guarantees the right to life and that deprivation is only allowed under conditions recognized by law.
Authorities said the investigation will be conducted thoroughly and professionally, and urged the public to avoid taking the law into their own hands.
About The Author
