An estate agent, Alhaji Mutairu Owoeye, yesterday denied allegations that the police are shielding him from prosecution.
On Wednesday, leaders of 15 communities in Ibeju-Lekki protested against his arraignment in court for alleged land grabbing by the police.
The communities comprising Oko Olomi, Olowu Olomi, Adeba Jagunna, Ita Panpa, Ada Onikonko, Oko Ile, Oke Jigi, Alabula, Seriki Alabula, Alaga, Oko Idi-oro, Idi Ope, Adebare, Abule Baba Adisa and Aiyeteju claimed that the police released Mutairu and his son, Gani, instead of bringing them to court.
Owoeye, said to be recuperating in an Abuja hospital, said through his Personal Assistant, Alhaji Semiu Adeshina, that he was neither a land grabber nor a thug.
He said: “I am not a land grabber. I am a licensed estate agent who is registered with the government. The police are not shielding me and there is no reason I should give the police money when I am not a criminal.
“The police sent for me in Abuja based on an ongoing investigation into a land matter. When I got to Abuja, I was detained while still under investigation. I was not happy about this because I felt if I am being investigated, I should not be detained since I voluntarily honoured police’ invitation.
“I got in touch with my lawyer and I was asked to write my statement at the police headquarters. Thereafter, the police detained me and after a few days, I collapsed while in cell. I have issue with my blood pressure and I am also diabetic. When I developed complication and collapsed, I was rushed to the police hospital in Area 1, Abuja.
“After a few days, I was given bail. But to my surprise, the police said they want to follow me to my residence in Lagos and I had bought my ticket. I suspected foul play. So, I said the arrangement was not tidy. I guessed my blood pressure rose again and I became uncomfortable. So, I was rushed to Mamman Medical Centre, Area 8, Abuja, where I am still recuperating.
“I bought the land in question from Toll System and I have all the necessary documents. My claims can be verified. I am a legitimate estate agent and I am not on the run. I want the Inspector-General of Police to intervene. My life is under threat. If they have documents on the land, they should bring them.”