According to a report by Vanguard news on Monday, 01, 07, 2024, LAGOS—The family of Toheeb Eniafe, who was fatally shot by a Nigeria Police Force officer on May 1, 2024, in the Obalende area of Lagos State, has urged the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to expedite the investigation into their son's death, citing discomfort with the ongoing delays.
Toheeb was allegedly shot by a fleeing police officer at the NNPC filling station premises located at Obalende roundabout in Lagos, reportedly on the orders of another officer, Omeje Christian, who was apprehended and handed over to the authorities.
Speaking to reporters in Ikeja, Lagos over the weekend, the family spokesperson, Mr. Noheem Eniafe, expressed concern over the lack of progress in the investigation nearly two months after the incident. He described the delay as suggestive of a potential cover-up to protect the officer responsible.
"The police have not provided any significant updates to the deceased's family. We are seeking justice for Toheeb. His elderly parents appeal to all authorities, the government, and local as well as international human rights organizations to intervene on our behalf."
Mr. Wale Giwa, Vice Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, who witnessed the incident, recounted, "The incident took place around 8 p.m. Officer Christian and his fleeing colleague drove two Toyota Hilux vehicles into the petrol station through the exit, blocking customers from leaving after their purchases.
"While one vehicle was accompanied by two armed mobile policemen, the other was not. The obstruction caused by the Hilux vehicles provoked a reaction from everyone present. During this time, Officer Christian and his unnamed colleague briefly left but returned on a motorcycle with a loaded rifle around his neck.
"Upon Officer Christian's command to shoot at any resistance, the unidentified officer fired shots. One of these shots struck Toheeb, causing him to collapse and die. Another shot hit one of the Toyota Hilux vehicles, which subsequently caught fire.
"After the shooting, some bystanders apprehended Officer Christian and handed him over to the police as he attempted to flee. However, his unidentified colleague, who had fired the fatal shot, managed to escape. Others rushed to assist Toheeb, who had fallen unconscious, while petrol station attendants worked to move the burning vehicle away to prevent further danger."