By Erewunmi Peace

Police authorities have released the three policemen accused of killing seven traders at the Owode-Onirin Motor Spare Parts Market in Lagos State, Saturday PUNCH has learnt.

Findings also revealed that the suspected land grabber linked to the violent incident has been granted bail.

Families of the deceased traders alleged that they were being asked to pay large sums of money before the bodies of their loved ones could be released for burial.

The incident, which occurred on August 30, 2025, reportedly began when a suspected land grabber allegedly led policemen from the Nasarawa State Police Command to the market. The situation escalated into chaos, leaving at least seven traders dead and several others injured.

More than 50 vehicles were said to have been destroyed during the clash, while traders and residents accused the policemen of opening fire indiscriminately.

Following public outrage, the Lagos State Police Command confirmed that the accused officers were arrested and transferred to Abuja for investigation on the orders of the Inspector-General of Police. However, recent developments indicate that the officers have now been released, a move that has sparked anger and renewed calls for justice.

Human rights groups, including the Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR), have condemned the alleged release, describing it as a “mockery of justice.” The organization urged the Federal Government and police authorities to revisit the case and ensure accountability.

As of press time, police spokespersons in both Lagos and Abuja had yet to issue an official statement regarding the release of the officers or the next steps in the investigation.

Families of the victims have appealed to President Bola Tinubu and the Inspector-General of Police to intervene, insisting that justice must be served for those who lost their lives in the August attack.