By Melawakou Sisianu and Chidera John
The families of six traders killed in the Owode Onirin Motor Spare Parts Market attack in Lagos State have called for justice and compensation for the lives lost, urging the government to take responsibility.
The incident, which occurred on August 27, this year, which involved thugs and four policemen, left six traders dead, several others injured, and over 1,000 shops demolished despite a pending case at the Lagos High Court.
Speaking at a press conference, President of the Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR), Comrade Alex Omotehinse, urged the arrest and prosecution of the culprits alongside the four policemen reportedly involved in the shooting.
“We cannot continue to bury innocent Nigerians killed by those who are supposed to protect them. Mr. Ariori must be arrested , and the policemen who pulled the trigger must face justice,” he said.
A mother of one of the victims, Monifat Adeoye, wept as she demanded compensation for her 40-year-old son who left behind a seven-month-old baby and a wife. “Who will take care of them now? The government must not abandon us. We want justice, but we also need compensation to survive,” she said.
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A brother of another victim, Dauda Oshokoya, said his 32-year-old sibling died from gunshot wounds due to lack of urgent medical attention. He stressed that the family depended on the deceased for survival and required government’s support.
An uncle of another victim, Abiodun Temilola, recounted how his nephew was shot during working hours and later died in the hospital. He insisted that beyond arresting those involved, the families must be compensated.
The victims were identified as Seyi Akinboye, Adeoye Taiwo, Dare Mufutau, Aderemi Adeoye Hakeem, Abraham Idowu Temilola, and Wale Adebayo.