In a recent statement, a coalition of revolutionary civil society organizations, operating under the banner of the Movement For Justice (MFJ), has firmly stated their demand for the immediate extradition and arrest of Nigerian musician Azeez Adeshina Fashola, better known as Naira Marley, from the United Kingdom.
This demand is directly linked to the untimely passing of the fast-rising singer, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly recognized as Mohbad.
The coalition’s Co-Conveners, Ayo Ademiluyi and Ayoyinka Oni, along with Secretary Fidel Davynovich and Publicity Secretary Francis Nwapa, jointly signed the statement.
In their declaration, the coalition expressed unwavering support for the mass protests and candlelight vigils held nationwide and globally in response to Mohbad’s tragic demise. They are resolute in their call for justice and have urged for continued mass actions until justice is served for the late singer.
“We call for mass actions to take place outside the premises of the Coroner’s Inquest to demand justice for his untimely death.”
The coalition has raised concerns regarding the alleged links between those responsible for Mohbad’s persecution and the Nigerian state. They cite videos and pictures circulating on social media showing Sam Larry and Naira Marley in the company of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and even President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Although we welcome the arrest of Sam Larry, we unequivocally call for the extradition and arrest of Naira Marley within 48 hours by the Nigeria Police Force, failing which we will be left with no choice than to kickstart marathon nationwide mass actions.”
Furthermore, the coalition has expressed skepticism about the Nigeria Police’s ability to impartially investigate Mohbad’s death. They criticized the dispersal of mourners at the Lekki Toll Gate during the #JusticeforMohbad gathering and have warned of legal action to protect their fundamental rights.
“We are of the view that the Nigeria Police has not changed its attitude to peaceful protests after the ugly event of the Lekki Massacre of 20th October, 2020, and the brutality that led to the #EndSARS protests in the first place.”
The coalition has also announced their intention to commemorate the Lekki Massacre’s Memorial Anniversary on October 20, 2023, at the Lekki Toll Gate, emphasizing their determination to proceed despite potential obstacles.
“We will constitute, after consultations with all stakeholders, an Independent Panel of Inquiry comprising youth organizations, civil society organizations, Nigerian Bar Association, Nigerian Medical Association, and other progressive platforms to look into all the issues surrounding his (Mohbad) death.”
The coalition’s concerns extend beyond Mohbad’s case, as they highlighted other unresolved cases of unlawful killings, including the murder of Bamise Ayanwola and the tragic death of 12-year-old Mubarak Sanyaolu. They demand justice for these victims and accountability for the responsible parties.
“While we are aware that the next adjourned date of the prosecution of the bus driver, Andrew Nice Omikoron is 20th October, 2023, the Nigeria Police has not apprehended other suspects at large till date.”
Furthermore, the coalition has scheduled a mass action for Tuesday, October 3, to demand justice and an end to eviction and demolition in the Oworoshoki community in the Kosofe Local Government Area of Lagos State.
They allege that the community has faced challenges due to the actions of the Oloworo of Oworonsoki, supported by the Nigeria Police and individuals within the Lagos State Government. Additionally, the coalition called for the immediate release of two community activists who are currently detained.
“We will be steamrolling a mass action to the Lagos State House of Assembly, which will continue its Public Hearing on the matter on the said date.”
| Sahara Reporters
