The Lagos State Government has rejected claims that it is protecting suspects linked to the killing of six traders in Owode Onirin, stating that its decision not to prosecute was based on insufficient evidence.

Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro (SAN), made the clarification in a statement on Friday, describing allegations of a cover-up as unfounded and misleading.

The incident, which occurred on August 27, 2025, involved a police team led by Inspector Manu Bala and four others.

The case has since attracted public scrutiny over the handling of investigations and prosecution.

Pedro said the Ministry of Justice reviewed materials submitted by the Lagos State Police Command, including witness and suspect statements, but found no direct evidence linking the officers to the deaths.

According to him, there were no eyewitness accounts confirming that the victims were shot by the police, despite the incident taking place in a crowded market.

He added that available information suggested the police team was attacked by traders during a dispute, and that a service rifle allegedly taken from an officer may have been used in the shooting.

The attorney-general noted that the ministry initially withheld a legal opinion and instead directed the police to provide additional evidence, including post-mortem reports, ballistic analysis and examination of weapons used.

However, he said the requested materials were not submitted within the stipulated period, despite reminders, while the suspects remained in custody for about six months.

Pedro said it was only after the delay that the ministry issued its legal advice on March 3, 2026, concluding that no prima facie case had been established and recommending the withdrawal of charges, including conspiracy and involuntary manslaughter.

He stressed that the decision does not preclude future prosecution, noting that fresh evidence could lead to the reopening of the case.

The commissioner added that some forensic reports were later submitted after the legal advice had been issued and are currently under review.

He maintained that declining to prosecute in the absence of sufficient evidence is a constitutional obligation, warning against pursuing cases based on speculation.

Pedro reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to due process and impartial justice, stating that prosecutions would continue to be guided strictly by evidence.

The Owode Onirin killings, which left six traders dead, remain a subject of public concern, with ongoing debate over the roles of both the police and prosecuting authorities.