An Akure-based legal practitioner, Sunday Michael Esq., has cried out for justice after allegedly being subjected to dehumanizing assaults by suspected thugs said to be linked to the Palace of the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade.
The incident which occurred near the Post Office area along Oba Adesida Road, Akure allegedly took place while the lawyer was riding on a motorcycle.
He was knocked down by a Venza vehicle driven by one Prince Oluwole Oluwalana, reportedly associated with the palace. Rather than render assistance, Prince Oluwole allegedly called for reinforcements, and in moments, a group of thugs led by Oluwatuyi Adekanbi (aka Tuyi) arrived at the scene.
Upon sighting the lawyer, Tuyi was said to have exclaimed, “You again? Are you the only person in Akure?” before ordering his group to violently assault the lawyer. The attack left Barr. Michael severely injured. Items in his possession, including his laptop, wristwatch, and eyeglasses, were reportedly stolen or destroyed. His motorcycle was also forcefully taken to the palace, where it was vandalized and stripped of parts, including its number plate and rear lights.
Passersby came to the lawyer’s aid, helping him recover scattered items and facilitating his transport to the “A” Division Police Station. Due to the severity of his injuries, the Divisional Crime Officer (DCO) advised him to seek medical attention before making an official statement.
Citizen Rapporteur understands that the Lawyer returned the next day to file the report, and both Oluwole and Tuyi were invited for questioning.
The case was subsequently reported to the AIG Zone 17, but according to Michael, no concrete investigation has commenced. The Investigating Police Officer (IPO), Inspector Bello, allegedly has not reached out to the complainant since the matter was transferred.
Citizen Rapporteur gathered that sometime in 2019, Mr. Michael was reportedly assaulted in a similar manner by the same individuals. That matter was also taken to court but was eventually dismissed for lack of diligent prosecution.
Michael is now calling for a transparent and immediate investigation, urging the Ondo State Government, the AIG Zone 17, and the Nigeria Police Force to take decisive action.
