The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed four officers from the Nigeria Police Force for their alleged involvement in the unlawful killing of seven traders at Owode-Onirin Market in the Kosofe Local Government Area.

The incident occurred in August 2025 during a violent clash reportedly involving suspected land grabbers and local traders at the bustling motor spare parts market.

The officers, who were allegedly brought in from Nasarawa State by the principal suspect identified as Hakim Abiodun Ariori, are accused of opening fire indiscriminately on the traders.

Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, confirmed the dismissals on Thursday while briefing journalists at the Police Officers’ Mess in Ikeja.

He described the shooting as the “unlawful killing of innocent traders” and stated that the four officers had been in custody at the Force Criminal Investigation Department, where internal disciplinary proceedings were conducted, leading to their dismissal.

Jimoh emphasized that investigations into the matter are nearing completion and assured the public that the case has not been swept under the carpet. He added that all suspects, including the dismissed officers, will face prosecution, with the courts open to hear the matter fully.

The tragic event initially claimed five lives, with the death toll rising to seven after two injured traders succumbed to their wounds in hospital. The dismissals represent a significant step toward accountability amid public outrage and calls for justice from civil society groups and residents.

Authorities have not yet released the names of the dismissed officers, but further details on potential criminal charges are expected as the probe concludes.

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has relieved Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Benjamin Hundeyin of his duties as Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), effective Thursday, March 5, 2026.

The removal comes exactly six months after Hundeyin assumed the high-profile national spokesperson role in September 2025.

He was appointed by then-Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun as a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP), succeeding DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, and was later promoted to ACP during his tenure in recognition of his performance in police communications and public engagement.

The decision, approved by the current Acting Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, follows closely on the heels of Disu’s recent assumption of leadership.

Multiple reports indicate the move is part of a broader administrative shake-up and routine restructuring common during transitions to new IGP leadership, aimed at aligning key positions with the incoming administration’s priorities.

A senior police source confirmed the development, stating, “The Force Public Relations Officer has been removed this morning.” Details surrounding the exact reasons remain unclear, with no official statement from the NPF headquarters specifying whether the change is punitive or purely administrative.

Sources familiar with police protocols note that such redeployments often occur to refresh communications strategies and ensure alignment with new leadership directives focused on professionalism, accountability, and public trust.

Hundeyin, previously the Public Relations Officer for the Lagos State Police Command, was widely regarded for his effective media handling and efforts to enhance the police’s public image. His short but impactful stint as FPRO included handling national security communications during various incidents.

As of now, the identity of Hundeyin’s successor has not been officially announced, though speculation points to an imminent appointment to maintain continuity in the force’s public-facing operations amid heightened national security demands.

This development aligns with recent senior-level adjustments in the NPF, including retirements and promotions tied to the leadership change. The force continues its transition under Acting IGP Disu, emphasizing operational stability and reforms in policing.

Mba’s retirement comes after 34 Years of Service, alongside other Senior Officers; seven AIGs Poised for Promotion

Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) Frank Mba, a prominent figure in the Nigeria Police Force known for his roles as a three-time national spokesman and his contributions to training and public engagement, has retired after a distinguished 34-year career.

The retirement follows the recent appointment of Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) Olatunji (Tunji) Disu as the new Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In line with longstanding traditions and protocols within the Nigeria Police Force, the elevation of a junior officer to the top position typically necessitates the retirement of senior officers, including DIGs, to maintain the force’s strict hierarchy, seniority structure, and operational stability.

DIG Mba, who joined the force on May 18, 1992—the same enlistment date as the new Acting IGP Disu—had served with notable professionalism, integrity, and reform-minded dedication. Civil society groups, including the Civic Alliance for Security Accountability (CASA), have lauded him as a “scholar-practitioner” whose career set a benchmark for ethical policing and effective communication.

Mba’s service included a UN peacekeeping mission in Liberia (2006–2007), where he earned a UN Medal, and various strategic roles across investigations, operations, and administration.

His statutory retirement was originally projected for April 2027 after completing 35 years of service, but the leadership transition accelerated his exit.

Tributes from colleagues and observers highlight his charisma, composure, exceptional public relations skills, and ability to humanize the police image, inspiring many young Nigerians to view the profession positively.

The transition has broader implications for the force’s senior ranks. Reports indicate that multiple DIGs (potentially up to eight, including Mba) have been affected by the customary retirements tied to the new IGP’s appointment.

Meanwhile, the shake-up is expected to open opportunities for promotions, with at least seven Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs) set to advance to fill the resulting vacancies at the DIG level and support the restructuring of the force’s leadership.

This development comes amid discussions on police hierarchy conventions, federal character considerations in promotions, and the need to preserve institutional knowledge during transitions.

President Tinubu’s administration has reportedly intervened to moderate the scale of retirements, avoiding a mass exit of around 30 senior officers as initially anticipated in some internal projections.

The Nigeria Police Force continues its leadership transition under Acting IGP Disu, with focus on maintaining stability and effectiveness in national security duties.