Rights group demands probe into deaths of Lagos traders
The Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights has called for an independent investigation into the alleged killing of six traders at Owode Onirin Market in Lagos. The group criticised the handling of the incident and the treatment of bereaved families and affected traders. Alex Omotehinse, president of the organisation, condemned the criminalisation of peaceful protests and alleged attempts to distort facts about demolitions and forced evictions. The group also highlighted ongoing intimidation and manipulation faced by the traders.
What happened
- The Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights demanded an independent investigation into the deaths of six Owode traders and others linked to demolitions in Lagos.
- Some victims were identified as Wale Adebayo, Akinboye Oluwaseyi, Taiye Adeoye, Mufutau Salaudeen, and Idowu Abraham.
- Alex Omotehinse criticised police actions and called for accountability and protection of civic space.
- The group condemned efforts to isolate Owode Onirin traders from other affected communities and highlighted recent mass protests.
- The organisation called for justice, compensation, and an end to police interference in lawful protests.
