Nigeria: Widow Seeks Justice as Police Delay Murder Probe of Husband
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria
A grieving widow, Mariam Salami, has expressed her frustration with the alleged lack of investigation into the murder of her husband, Ishola, in Ajiran, Ajah area of Lagos State. Salami’s husband was known for opposing land-grabbing activities in the community but was tragically attacked and shot dead on while attending a function near their residence.
In an interview with Mariam disclosed that her efforts to seek justice for her late husband have been met with resistance from the police. She revealed that people in the community are afraid to speak up about the incident and appealed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene in the matter.
“For the past year, we have been trying to get justice for my husband. He was murdered in broad daylight, and we have been pleading with the government and the police officers to assist us. They know what needs to be done, but they have turned a deaf ear. I am using this opportunity to beg the state governor to help me get justice. Today marks one year, and we have not received any positive news regarding the case,” Mariam stated.
The Civil Society Stakeholders, represented by the Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights, also released a statement expressing concern over the lack of progress in the investigation. The rights group called on the new leadership of the Nigeria Police, headed by Inspector General Police Kayode Egbetokun, to order a credible investigation into the murder of Ishola Salami.
The statement further highlighted that the Lagos State House of Assembly had initiated an inquiry into the matter through the House Committee on Human Rights. The committee urged the Lagos State Police Command to investigate the murder, but the rights group claimed that no meaningful steps have been taken by the police or the Office of the IGP to address the case.
The Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights appealed to Governor Sanwo-Olu to intervene and ensure that a thorough investigation is conducted in the interest of justice.
The police have yet to provide an update on the case. contacted the state Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, who promised to gather information and provide an update.
The delay in investigating Ishola Salami’s murder has left his widow and the community seeking answers and justice. The call for a thorough investigation and the intervention of the state governor highlights the need to address the issue promptly and ensure that those responsible for the crime are brought to justice.
