Crime

Seven Arrested Over Lagos Engineer’s Death Amid Land Dispute, Employer Raises Alarm Over Alleged Police Interference

Published by Tope Fakinlede on July 8th, 2025.

Seven Arrested Over Lagos Engineer’s Death Amid Land Dispute, Employer Raises Alarm Over Alleged Police Interference

Authorities have arrested seven individuals in connection with the killing of Badmus Monsur, a site engineer who was reportedly murdered during a violent confrontation over a disputed parcel of land in Agidingbi, Lagos. The arrests were made by officers of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Alagbon, Lagos.

The conflict, tied to a government-allocated property, has since drawn attention to alleged attempts by influential individuals to obstruct justice and manipulate the investigation process.

Employer Alleges Pressure on Investigators

Alhaji Akeem Osuolale, Chairman of Nigercat Nigeria Group of Companies and the late engineer’s employer, expressed serious concerns over what he described as interference by some senior police personnel. He claimed that pressure is being mounted on the FCID to release the suspects prematurely.

While commending the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and CSP Oyewale for their efforts in making the arrests, Osuolale warned that similar suspects had previously been released without consequence.

“In past incidents, some of the same individuals responsible for the violence were quickly freed, while our workers were unjustly detained,” he said during a press briefing in Ikeja.

He further alleged that those behind the attack had issued multiple threats to him and his employees, claiming they had the backing of security operatives. “They boasted openly about their influence over the police. On the day of the incident, more than 25 armed men were at the site where my engineer was killed,” he added.

Appeal for Government Action

Osuolale appealed to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.

“This is not just about my company—it’s about ensuring that law-abiding citizens are not left at the mercy of armed gangs with powerful connections. I urge Governor Sanwo-Olu to take a stand,” he said.

Police Response

When reached for comment, police officials at FCID declined to disclose further details, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.