The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed a mob attack that led to the death of one Basit Kolade on Freeman Street, Lagos Island, on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at about 10:40 p.m. The incident allegedly followed a road traffic accident.
Abimbola Adebisi, Police Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Command, in a statement said according to preliminary investigations, Kolade was driving with his wife in a black Lexus Jeep, registration number KSF 115 JZ, from Ebute Metta towards Lagos Island when a motorcycle reportedly collided with his vehicle from behind. An argument ensued, and in the process, the vehicle allegedly reversed and hit the motorcycle, causing the rider to fall. The situation attracted a mob who allegedly attacked Kolade with dangerous weapons. His wife was rescued by women in the area, while Kolade was rushed to Lagos Island General Hospital where he was confirmed dead. The motorcycle rider survived and is receiving treatment in hospital.
The Command said four suspects have been arrested in connection with the killing. They are Khalid Rafiq, 20; Gafar Rahim, 21; Ibrahim Azeez, 33; and Samos Momoh, 21. Police added that efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest other persons who allegedly participated in the attack. The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, Panti, for further investigation and prosecution.
The Police stressed that the 1999 Constitution guarantees the right to life and only permits deprivation of life under circumstances recognised by law. It also cited the Criminal Law of Lagos State, which classifies unlawful killing as homicide and provides severe punishment for murder upon conviction. The Command warned the public against mob action, jungle justice and self-help, noting that no individual or group has the legal authority to arrest, try, convict or execute another person.
The warning aligns with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, who ordered that all cases of mob action resulting in death be treated as homicide. The IGP warned that persons who participate in, organise, incite or support such attacks will face the full weight of the law. The Command urged residents to report criminal incidents to the Police and allow the law to take its course instead of resorting to violence.
Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, has directed that all persons found culpable be identified, arrested and prosecuted. He assured the public that the investigation would be thorough and professional, and that anyone found to have participated in the attack or contributed to the death would be made to face justice.
