The Lagos State chapter of the Take It Back Movement has condemned the continued detention of a teenager, Michael Adeniyi, describing his case as a tragic example of injustice, abuse of power, and systemic failure within the Nigeria Police Force.
In a press statement issued on May 6, 2026, and signed by the Lagos State Coordinator of the movement, Adekunle Adeyemi Taofeek, popularly known as Scotty Aluta, the group alleged that Michael Adeniyi was arrested in 2023 during a police raid carried out by officers attached to Area F Command, Ikeja, when he was just 14 years old.
According to the statement, despite being a minor at the time of his arrest, Michael was detained and later remanded at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre after his family allegedly failed to meet the bail conditions imposed by the police.
The movement further claimed that other individuals arrested alongside him were released the same day after allegedly paying for their freedom.
The group stated that Michael, now 17 years old, has remained in detention for nearly three years without justice, proper care, or the legal protections guaranteed to children under Nigerian law.
Describing the situation as heartbreaking, the Take It Back Movement revealed that both of Michael’s parents reportedly died while making efforts to secure their son’s release from detention, “This is not just a failure of policing; it is a complete collapse of humanity and justice,” the statement read.
The movement accused the officers involved of abuse of power, greed, and disregard for the law, insisting that no child should suffer prolonged detention simply because their family lacks financial resources.
The Lagos Chapter strongly condemned the unlawful treatment of the teenager and demanded his immediate release from custody. They also called on the Lagos State Government to launch an urgent investigation into the actions of the officers responsible for the arrest and detention.
In addition, the movement demanded adequate compensation for the teenager, citing the years lost in detention, emotional trauma, and the devastating impact the incident has had on his family.
The Take It Back Movement disclosed that it has already engaged legal counsel and is prepared to pursue the matter through all available legal channels until justice is achieved, “We have engaged legal counsel and are fully prepared to pursue this matter to its logical conclusion. Justice must not only be demanded, it must be enforced,” the statement added.
The movement further warned against any attempt to suppress or ignore the case, stressing that it should serve as a wake-up call for urgent reforms within Nigeria’s law enforcement and criminal justice systems.
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