Court Fixes May 8 for Ruling in Makoko Protest Case, Adjourns Soweto, Frank Trial

A magistrate court in Yaba has postponed the trial of activists Hassan Taiwo and Dele Frank to May 8, 2026, while reserving ruling on an application for the release of items seized during a Lagos protest.

The case stems from a January 28 demonstration against demolitions in communities across Lagos State, during which police confiscated items including a generator, DJ equipment, a first aid kit, and bags containing cash and flight tickets.

Defence counsel Femi Falana (SAN) argued that the court has the power to order the return of the items, citing constitutional provisions and the Administration of Criminal Justice Law.

“The prosecution ought to have filed a report identifying these items seized and what to do with them under Section 5, Subsection 4. That has not been done… I point to the court, therefore, to order the release of these items on bond,” he said.

Falana stressed that the items could be produced whenever required, noting: “Money is involved, especially the bag containing the sum of N15,000 and the other bag containing two flight tickets valued at N30,000 each.”

However, police prosecutor ASP Anthony Ihiehie opposed the application, arguing that releasing the items could compromise evidence.

“Any exhibit cannot be released on bond unless it has been tendered before the court… there is a likelihood that it could be tampered with,” he said.

Following proceedings, Soweto addressed supporters outside the court, urging nationwide solidarity. “What happened there can happen anywhere if we allow the state to abuse its power this way… we are not backing down,” he said.

Activist Francis Nwapa said the protest involved residents from Makoko, Oworonshoki, Oko-Agbon, and Iwaya opposing forced evictions, while Zikora Ibeh described the case as “a sham trial” and called on police to withdraw from the matter.

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