…Call for Transparency, Professional Investigation
A coalition of civil society organisations has defended the role of the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2 Command, AIG Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, in the investigation into the deaths of Sheriff Ishola Salami and Prince Ademola Akinloye in Ajiran, Lagos State.
The groups, which include the Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR), said they were concerned about what they described as misinformation and conflicting narratives surrounding the ongoing criminal proceedings arising from the case.
The coalition’s position was contained in a statement jointly signed by representatives of several organisations, including the Coordinator of the Centre for Advocacy for Credible Leadership (CACL), Comrade Femi Lawnson; the Centre for Physically Challenged and Human Rights (CPCHR), represented by Olatunde Owoeye-Wise; the Convener of Mekunukoya, Balogun Adewale; the Convener of the Campaign for Dignity in Governance, Razaq Olokoba; the Convener of the Campaign Against Impunity, Comrade Shina Loremikan; the Secretary of the Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR), Comrade Ewajane Osowo; and the Coordinator of Care and Justice for Women and Children, Mrs. Kehinde Jones.
Addressing journalists on behalf of the coalition, the organisations stated that public commentary and social media discussions on the matter should be guided by verified facts and respect for the judicial process.
According to the coalition, following concerns raised over the pace of the investigation, a petition was submitted in January 2026, after which the Inspector-General of Police reportedly directed a review of the case.
The groups stated that the directive was implemented by the then Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, now AIG Moshood Jimoh, through what they described as a structured and intelligence-driven investigation.
The coalition said the investigation involved witness interviews, collection of evidence and collaboration among relevant law enforcement agencies.
“In recent days, we have observed with concern the use of public platforms to circulate narratives which, in our view, are capable of distorting public understanding of the case and undermining confidence in the judicial process,” the coalition stated.
“We are here to set the record straight, restore integrity to public discourse and advocate strict compliance with the rule of law,” it added.
The organisations noted that the arrest and prosecution of suspects in the matter were carried out through established legal procedures, including court processes and cooperation with international law enforcement bodies where necessary.
The coalition rejected allegations circulating in some quarters accusing AIG Jimoh of misconduct or abuse of office in relation to the investigation, describing the claims as unsubstantiated and calling for restraint in public commentary pending the conclusion of judicial proceedings.
According to the group, it found no publicly available evidence to support allegations of corruption or bias against the senior police officer.
“We categorically reject allegations accusing AIG Moshood Jimoh of corruption, bias or abuse of office. After reviewing publicly available records and proceedings, we consider such claims to be unsubstantiated and misleading,” the coalition stated.
The groups commended the police leadership for what they described as professionalism in handling a sensitive and high-profile case.
However, the coalition called on the Inspector-General of Police to investigate reports of alleged unprofessional conduct by some police personnel involved in aspects of the investigation and to take appropriate action if any wrongdoing is established.
The organisations also urged police authorities to ensure that all officers connected with the matter maintain neutrality and professionalism throughout the judicial process.
In addition, the coalition called for clarity regarding the custodial status of defendants in the case and urged relevant authorities, including the Nigerian Correctional Service and the judiciary, to ensure strict compliance with court orders and established procedures.
The groups stressed the importance of protecting the integrity of ongoing investigations and prosecutions from undue influence or interference from any quarter.
They further called on the media, civil society organisations and members of the public to exercise caution in discussing matters that are currently before the courts, noting that justice can only be achieved through adherence to due process and the rule of law.
The coalition also called on the Inspector-General of Police to examine allegations of possible misconduct involving some police personnel connected with aspects of the investigation and, where necessary, take disciplinary action in accordance with established procedures.
The organisations expressed concern over what they described as the need for greater transparency and communication from relevant authorities regarding the progress of the investigation and prosecution.
The coalition reiterated its support for a transparent, impartial and evidence-based judicial process and expressed confidence that the courts would determine the issues before them based solely on the evidence presented.
