The Lagos State Police Command has arrested four suspects over the alleged mob killing of Basit Kolade, a man who died following a road traffic incident on Freeman Street, Lagos Island, on Wednesday, September 2, 2026. The incident, which occurred at approximately 10:40 p.m., involved a collision between Kolade’s black Lexus Jeep, with registration number KSF 115 JZ, and a motorcycle from behind. According to police, an argument erupted between Kolade and the motorcyclist, which escalated when the vehicle reversed and struck the motorcycle, causing the rider to fall.
A crowd quickly gathered at the scene, and some individuals allegedly attacked Kolade with dangerous weapons. Despite efforts by women in the vicinity to rescue his wife, Kolade was taken to Lagos Island General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The motorcycle rider survived and is currently receiving medical treatment in a hospital. The police confirmed that the case has been classified as homicide and transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The four suspects arrested in connection with the attack are Khalid Rafiq, 20; Gafar Rahim, 21; Ibrahim Azeez, 33; and Samos Momoh, 21. Police stated they are still actively searching for other individuals believed to have participated in the mob violence. In a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, on Monday, September 7, 2026, the command emphasized that no individual or group has the legal authority to administer justice outside the law.
The police reiterated their stance against mob action, jungle justice, and self-help, citing Section 33 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees the right to life, and the Criminal Law of Lagos State, under which unlawful killing is a serious offence. This position aligns with directives from Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, who ordered that all cases involving mob attacks resulting in death be treated as homicide. The IGP also warned that anyone found to have incited, organized, or supported such attacks would face full legal consequences.
Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, directed investigators to identify and arrest all persons culpable in the incident, ensuring they are prosecuted in accordance with the law. The command assured the public that the investigation would be thorough and professional, and that anyone found responsible for Kolade’s death would not escape justice. Police urged residents to report criminal incidents promptly and allow the legal system to handle them, stressing that suspicion alone does not justify violence.
As investigations continue, the incident highlights ongoing concerns about mob justice in Nigeria and underscores the need for public trust in lawful processes. The arrest of these suspects marks a critical step toward accountability, and authorities remain committed to ensuring justice is served.
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