The Lagos State Chapter of the Take It Back Movement (TIB) has condemned the continued detention of a West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC) candidate and his father at Area P Command, Lagos, over an alleged theft of electrical wires.
In a statement issued on Sunday, June 1, 2026, and signed by the Lagos State Coordinator of the movement, Adekunle Adeyemi Taofeek, popularly known as Scotty Aluta, the chapter described the situation as disturbing and called for urgent intervention by the police authorities.
According to the movement, the detained man and his son had been hired to paint a residential building. After completing the painting work and leaving the premises, unknown persons allegedly broke into the property and stole electrical wires from the building.
The statement explained that instead of carrying out a thorough investigation to identify the actual culprits, the police arrested the painter, his son, and several other individuals in connection with the incident.
The movement noted that more than three days after their arrest, there was reportedly no credible evidence linking the suspects to the alleged crime.
“Our attention has been drawn to a disturbing case of alleged unlawful detention currently taking place at Area P Command, Lagos, involving a man and his son, who is presently writing the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC),” the statement said.
The movement disclosed that it had contacted the Area Commander and requested a diligent and professional investigation into the matter.
“Upon receiving the complaint, I contacted the Area Commander and requested that a diligent investigation be carried out to ensure that innocent persons are not made to suffer for an offence they did not commit,” the statement added.
While acknowledging that the police informed them that investigations were ongoing, the movement expressed concern over the continued detention of the suspects despite the reported absence of substantial evidence.
The movement further revealed that a CCTV camera was reportedly installed within the compound where the theft occurred. However, it alleged that the property owner had refused to release the footage, which could help identify those responsible for the crime.
“It is particularly troubling that there is said to be a CCTV camera installed within the compound where the theft occurred. However, we have been informed that the property owner has refused to release the footage, despite the fact that such evidence could assist in identifying the actual perpetrators and establishing the truth,” the statement said.
The Take It Back Movement also raised concerns over allegations that the detained individuals were being pressured to pay ₦2.5 million or face prosecution.
“Even more alarming are allegations that the suspects are being compelled to pay the sum of ₦2.5 million or risk being charged to court for an offence that has not been proven against them,” the statement noted.
According to the movement, if the allegations are true, such actions would amount to an abuse of police powers and a violation of the principles of justice and due process.
The movement expressed particular concern for the detained student, stressing that his continued detention could negatively affect his education and future.
“Our greatest concern remains the young student who is currently sitting for his WAEC examinations. Keeping a WAEC candidate in detention for days while examinations are ongoing, without clear evidence of wrongdoing, is not only unjust but also threatens his educational future and fundamental rights,” the statement said.
The organisation therefore called on the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, and other relevant authorities to intervene immediately and ensure a transparent and impartial investigation.
“The Nigerian Police Force must remain guided by the principles of fairness, justice, and respect for human rights. Criminal investigations should be driven by evidence and the rule of law, not suspicion, intimidation, or financial coercion,” the statement concluded.
The Take It Back Movement said it would continue to monitor the case and stand in solidarity with victims of injustice and abuse of power.
Leave a Reply