Akanbi’s lawyers slam Falana over murder claims, allege bias, media manipulation
Legal Team Responds to Calls for Prosecution of Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi
The legal representatives of Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi have issued a strong rebuttal against Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr. Femi Falana, following his recent public call for the prosecution of Akanbi on allegations related to murder, attempted murder, and property destruction.
In a statement released on May 10, 2026, Akanbi’s counsel, Mr. Adedotun Ajulo, described Falana’s remarks as hasty and lacking legal support. Ajulo contended that Falana’s comments could improperly influence public opinion and disrupt ongoing investigations.
“With due respect, the intervention by the Learned Silk is premature, reckless, and legally indefensible,” Ajulo stated, emphasizing that it does not meet the standards expected from a senior member of the legal profession. He underscored that under Section 36(5) of the 1999 Constitution, Akanbi is presumed innocent until proven guilty, especially since the investigation into the allegations commenced on April 16, 2026.
Ajulo further argued that calls for prosecution prior to the conclusion of investigations undermine due process and the principle of fair hearings. He questioned whether any credible evidence linked Akanbi to the alleged crimes or if Falana’s statements aimed to generate public sympathy and outrage.
The legal team asserted that evidence shows Akanbi was not in Nigeria on the dates of the alleged crimes, specifically April 18, 2023, and August 26, 2024, when individuals Sheriff Ishola Salami and Prince Akinloye were reportedly killed. They noted that none of the suspects in the case have implicated Akanbi in any confessions or testimonies.
“There is no direct or circumstantial evidence connecting our client with any of the persons facing prosecution in the matter,” the statement read. Ajulo also addressed claims of Akanbi’s previous convictions for property-related offenses, asserting that no Nigerian court has found him guilty of such charges.
Additionally, the statement criticized former Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Jimoh Moshood, for allegedly mishandling the investigation. Akanbi’s legal team claimed he was declared wanted without due process, resulting in property vandalism in Ajiran community, while police authorities purportedly ignored supportive evidence.
Ajulo stated that a petition to the Inspector-General of Police led to the reassignment of Akanbi’s case from Moshood to the Force Criminal Investigation Department for further examination. He mentioned that earlier court rulings nullified an arrest order against Akanbi, emphasizing that he had complied with proper legal procedures upon his return to Nigeria.
The lawyers described Akanbi’s subsequent arrest in Cotonou, Benin Republic, as questionable and contradictory to existing court directives. They rejected the notion that he was a fugitive, suggesting his open conduct in Benin did not reflect that of someone avoiding the law.
Ajulo condemned the public display of Akanbi in handcuffs and leg chains on April 20, 2026, characterizing it as a deliberate attempt to tarnish his image and influence public perception. He criticized Falana for supporting what he deemed a compromised process, suggesting that inconsistencies in the case should have prompted further scrutiny rather than public condemnation of an unconvicted citizen.
Akanbi’s legal team cautioned against a media-driven spectacle in the justice system, asserting the necessity of upholding evidence and constitutional protections. They warned that they may pursue legal action against those spreading false narratives that threaten Akanbi’s constitutional rights, emphasizing that the justice system should remain free from undue media influence.
