The High Court of Lagos has delivered a scathing judgment against the Nigeria Police, declaring the “wanted” declaration issued against Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi by Jimoh Moshood unlawful and a violation of established legal procedures.
In a judgment delivered on Friday, August 7, 2026, in Suit No. ID/21447MFHR/2026, Justice Lawal Alebiosu condemned the police action as a clear affront to extant laws governing criminal justice administration. The court held that the issuance of a public summons or “wanted” declaration without prior leave of court is illegal and constitutes a breach of due process.
Justice Alebiosu further criticized the conduct of the police, describing it as a blatant disregard for the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice framework. The court consequently ordered the immediate retraction of the “wanted” notice and directed the police to issue a public apology to the Applicant.
In addition to nullifying the declaration, the court granted several consequential reliefs, including a declaration that the allegation—made during a press conference—that Akanbi sponsored multiple murders amounted to an unlawful media trial. The court also issued an order restraining the police from further parading, portraying, or publishing the Applicant as a criminal suspect in relation to the alleged offences.
Furthermore, a perpetual injunction was granted, barring the police from any further harassment or intimidation of Akanbi.
The ruling comes amid heightened public interest and controversy surrounding the case, particularly on social media, where widespread speculation has trailed the allegations. Many commentators have suggested the possibility of a broader conspiracy linked to an underlying land dispute—claims that have further fueled debate over the conduct of law enforcement authorities.
The judgment is expected to have significant implications for police procedure and the protection of fundamental rights, especially in relation to public declarations and media engagement in criminal matters.
