Police Separate Murder Trial from Probe as VDM Rejects Lagos Invitation

The Nigeria Police Force has moved to separate the ongoing murder trial linked to the Ajiran killings from an administrative investigation involving Assistant Inspector-General of Police Moshood Jimoh, amid allegations raised by social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM).

The controversy stems from VDM’s claims that businessman Ahmed Akanbi was wrongly implicated in the investigation into the 2023 killing of Sheriff Salami and the 2024 murder of Prince Ademola Akinloye in Lagos.

According to VDM, suspects initially arrested did not mention Akanbi in their confessional statements, alleging that later statements implicating him were obtained under pressure. He also claimed that some suspects were tortured during the investigation and called for an independent review of the case.

Despite being invited by investigators, the activist has refused to appear in Lagos, insisting that the matter should be transferred to Abuja.

“I am not coming to Lagos,” he said in a video shared on his social media platforms.

VDM maintained that he would only cooperate if the investigation was handled outside Lagos.

“If there were another AIG in charge of the Lagos command, I would go. But as long as AIG Moshood Jimoh remains there, I will not honour any invitation from Lagos regarding this matter,” he said, citing concerns for his personal safety.

Responding to the allegations, the Nigeria Police Force said the criminal case is already before a court and cannot be litigated through the media.

In a statement signed by Force Public Relations Officer CSP Ani Iniedu, the police explained that the murder case was charged to court after legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions.

“The criminal matter referenced in public commentary was investigated and is now before a court of competent jurisdiction following the advice of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions. As the matter is sub judice, its adjudication rests solely with the judiciary,” the statement said.

The Force confirmed that the Assistant Inspector-General in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) had invited AIG Jimoh for questioning over the allegations, while VDM has also been asked to appear before investigators to substantiate his claims.

According to the police, the parallel investigations demonstrate the Force’s commitment to accountability while ensuring due process is followed.

The police further noted that complaints against officers are investigated through established mechanisms, including the FCID, the Force Complaint Response Unit and, where necessary, the Office of the Inspector-General of Police.

While acknowledging the public’s right to demand accountability, the Force stressed that allegations must be investigated through lawful procedures rather than determined in the court of public opinion.

“Allegations must be formally submitted, investigated and objectively assessed. Any officer found culpable following investigation will face sanctions in accordance with the law,” the statement added.

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