The Lagos State Police Command has detained four suspects over the alleged mob attack that led to the death of Mr Basit Kolade. The command’s spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday in Lagos. Adebisi said the incident occurred about 10:40 p.m. on Wednesday following a road traffic incident involving Kolade and a motorcycle rider.
Preliminary investigation showed that Kolade was travelling with his spouse from Ebute Metta towards Lagos Island in a black Lexus Jeep. According to her, a motorcycle allegedly collided with the vehicle from behind, resulting in an argument between Kolade and the rider. She said the vehicle subsequently reversed and allegedly hit the motorcycle, causing the rider and motorcycle to fall.
The incident attracted a group of people who allegedly attacked Kolade with dangerous weapons. Some women in the area rescued Kolade’s spouse, while he was rushed to Lagos Island General Hospital. Kolade was later confirmed dead at the hospital, while the motorcycle rider survived and was receiving treatment. Police have so far apprehended four suspects, aged between 31 and 33.
The command warned members of the public against mob action, jungle justice and resorting to self-help. The Inspector-General of Police had directed police commands to treat mob actions resulting in death as homicide. Anyone who participated in, organised, incited or supported such attacks would face the full weight of the law.
The winners: the police, who have made arrests; and the family of the deceased, who may see justice. The losers: the suspects, who face prosecution; and the Nigerian public, who are reminded of the dangers of mob justice.
Bottom Line: A driver is dead after a mob attack. Four suspects are in custody. The police are warning against jungle justice. The question is whether the perpetrators will be convicted or the case will collapse.