The Lagos State Taskforce has arrested and prosecuted 12 suspected land grabbers, accused of terrorising residents and business owners along NERDC Road, Alausa, Ikeja. The suspects were apprehended, following credible intelligence that they were obstructing lawful occupants from carrying out their legitimate activities. Reports also indicated that they assaulted Mr Ashafa of Prestige Hotel, Ikeja, and arrived at the scene armed with dangerous weapons.
According to the Agency, the operation aligns with its mandate to curb land grabbing across Lagos, a practice that, if unchecked, could disrupt development and deprive residents of their hard-earned investments.
Taskforce Chairman, CSP Adetayo Akerele, who personally led the operation, issued a stern warning to individuals engaging in land grabbing. He emphasised that the agency would not stand by while Lagosians are unfairly dispossessed of their properties.
Following their arrest, the suspects were arraigned in court, where they pleaded not guilty to the charges. The court granted them bail at N500,000 each, with two sureties per Defendant. One of the sureties must be a civil servant not below Level 14, while the second must be either a relative, a clergy member, or a community leader.
The case has been adjourned to March 26, 2025, for further proceedings.
The Lagos State Taskforce reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order, warning that it would not tolerate intimidation, violence, or land grabbing. Residents are urged to report any such illegal activities, to the appropriate authorities.
