The Lagos State Government has firmly rejected claims that it is shielding suspects linked to the killing of six traders in Owode Onirin, maintaining that its decision not to prosecute was strictly based on insufficient evidence.
In a detailed statement released on Friday, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro (SAN), dismissed a report titled “Is Lagos State Shielding Killers?” as inaccurate and misleading. The report had criticised the government’s handling of the August 27, 2025 incident involving Inspector Manu Bala and four other police officers.
Pedro clarified that the Ministry of Justice found no prima facie case against the suspects after reviewing materials submitted by the Lagos State Police Command. According to him, the case file—forwarded in line with Section 74 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law—contained no direct evidence linking the officers to the deaths.
He noted the absence of eyewitness accounts confirming that the policemen fired the fatal shots, despite the incident occurring in a crowded market. Instead, available information suggested that the police team was attacked by traders at a disputed land site. During the clash, an officer was reportedly disarmed, and his rifle allegedly used by a trader to fire shots.
Pedro added that the assaulted officer was rescued and taken to hospital, while the only civilian suspect arrested was later confirmed not to have been at the scene.
Given the gravity of the case, the ministry initially withheld a “no case” ruling and instructed the police to deepen their investigation. On October 30, 2025, it requested critical evidence, including autopsy reports, ballistic analyses, and firearm examination records.
However, after 45 days without a response—and a follow-up reminder sent in December—the police failed to provide the requested documents. With suspects held in custody for about six months and no additional evidence forthcoming, the ministry issued its legal advice on March 3, 2026, concluding that the case lacked sufficient grounds for prosecution.
As a result, charges of conspiracy and involuntary manslaughter were recommended for withdrawal.
Despite this, Pedro stressed that the case is not closed. He revealed that provisional post-mortem and ballistic reports were later submitted and are currently under review. He assured that prosecution would resume if new evidence establishes culpability.
Defending the government’s stance, Pedro emphasised that refusing to prosecute without evidence is a constitutional duty, not an attempt to protect suspects.
“The decision not to prosecute where evidence is insufficient is not an act of protection—it is an ethical obligation to prevent wrongful prosecution,” he said.
He further warned against emotionally driven narratives, noting that justice must balance the rights of victims, suspects, and society.
Reaffirming the state’s commitment to the rule of law, Pedro stated that all prosecutions would continue to be guided by fairness, due process, and credible evidence.
