4th November, 2010
Residents of Akala area of Mushin, Lagos, Nigeria, have appealed to the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Hafiz Ringim, to intervene in the numerous clashes between members of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) and hoodlums popularly referred to as “Akala boys†in the area.
According to the residents, they have lost properties, and even lives to the frequent clashes between the OPC and the hoodlums who specialised in smoking and selling Indian hemp and other hard drugs in the area.
It was also gathered that the hoodlums enjoyed the backing of a popular land speculator, who usually assist them with the support of policemen.
Some of the landlords in Akala who spoke with P.M.NEWS, accused policemen of taking side with the hoodlums by going after the OPC members and arresting innocent citizens anytime there is violence in the area.
They also called on the IGP to set up a panel of enquiry to find a lasting solution to the activities of the hoodlums.
Mr. Tajudeen Adekoya, a resident said: “The problem of this area is beyond what the police in our community can handle. The Inspector-General of Police needs to intervene by setting up a panel of enquiry to get to the root of the whole matter.†Adekoya said the regular clash for supremacy in the area has resulted in untold hardship and threat to lives and property.
When P.M.NEWS called at the Area ‘D’ Command of Nigeria Police, Mushin, an officer who did not want his name in print said the police are on top of the situation.
The police officer denied allegation that law enforcement officers were taking side with the hoodlums.
—Paul Sanusi
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