In a historic ruling that sends a clear message against land grabbing and criminal activities, the Magistrates’ Court of Lagos State has ordered the remand of two individuals who were allegedly hired by accused land grabbers to assassinate Hon. Saheed Mosadoluwa, the promoter of Whiterose, Harmony Gardens and Estate Development Limited. The court also ordered further investigation into the masterminds behind the plot.
A few months ago, Hon. Saheed Mosadoluwa, popularly known as Mr. Ibile, raised concerns about the unlawful activities of land grabbers on a property owned by his company at Eyin-Osa. The suspects, including Samsudeen Oluwo aka Ese Olobo and Sunday Olabayo, were allegedly engaged by Murphy Adebare Ademoye a.k.a Topaz to assassinate Mr. Ibile and forcefully take possession of his company’s properties.
On Tuesday, November 21, 2023, before His Honor, B.A. Sonuga, CM (Admin), at Court 2, Igbosere, Lagos, the court held a session to address the charges against the defendants. Among them were Sunday Olabayo, Lawal Ibrahim Adefemi, Gbenga Demurin, Idowu Mujaheed, Samsudeen Oluwo, and Dare Majekodunmi.
Notably, the court discharged and acquitted Lawal Ibrahim Adefemi, Idowu Mujaheed, Dare Majekodunmi, and Gbenga Demorin based on the advice of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) of the Attorney-General of Lagos State. However, it ruled that Samsudeen Oluwo a.k.a Ese-olobo, who granted Saharareporters and Gistlover viral interviews claiming dehumanization by Mr-Ibile, and Sunday Olabayo should be remanded in prison custody pending further legal proceedings.
In a letter with reference number CB:3510/X/FHQ/ ABJ/PPRO/VOL.11/96, the legal advice from the DPP highlighted that there was sufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case of conspiracy and unlawful possession of firearms against Shamsudeen Oluwo and Olabayo. The charges also included wilful damage to property and forcible possession.
The court’s decision vindicates Hon. Saheed Mosadoluwa, who had previously raised alarm over the nefarious activities of the accused individuals. Eyin Osa land owners claimed that Murphy Adebare had the backing of the AIG Idowu Owohunwa and CSP Shola Jejeloye of the Lagos State Task Force, who they believed took advantage of their offices to obstruct justice and favor the alleged land grabbers.
Adewole Apena claimed “that his family was part of the owners of the ressetlement land that sold land to Saheed Mosadoluwa, and despite attempts to discredit him and withdraw his company’s mobile guards and his personal security, Mr. Ibile stood his ground and defended himself against the assassination attempt and we all the land owners thank God for the court’s ruling that supports Mosadoluwa’s claims and exposes the lies of the accused hired assassin, who posted a doctored video on social media claiming dehumanization and ownership of the land.
However, the DPP recommended a follow-up investigation into Murphy Adebare Ademoye (Topaz), Sule Razak (Success), Lawo Oyewole (Fake General), and Kamoru Lamina (Sir K) for their alleged involvement in orchestrating the criminal activities.
The case is adjourned to January 23, 2024, for mention, and the AG office is advised to pursue the necessary legal processes at the High Court of Lagos State.
This legal development marks a significant victory for justice, emphasizing the consequences for land grabbers and those involved in criminal activities. Hon. Saheed Mosadoluwa’s stand against the illegal takeover of the property is now reinforced by the court’s decision, setting a precedent for accountability in such cases.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
