The Lagos State Police Command has arrested two principal suspects and declared several others wanted in connection with the murders of Sheriff Salami Ishola and Prince Ademola Akinloye in Eti Osa Local Government Area.
In a press statement on Thursday, February 19, 2026, Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, confirmed the arrest of Safiu Fatai, also known as Fabo, 40, and Yusuf Ismaila, also known as Bariga, who have confessed to participating in both killings. The suspects admitted that they were hired by Alhaji Ahmed Tajudeen Akanbi, 38, to carry out the murders in 2023 and 2024.
First Murder: Sheriff Salami Ishola, 37, was reportedly ambushed on April 18, 2023, around 3:00 PM in Moba town, Ajah. According to the police, Safiu Fatai, Yusuf Ismaila, Soji Mascot, and another accomplice, Kenny, armed with locally made pistols, axes, and machetes, dragged the victim into an isolated building, where he was shot multiple times and killed on the spot.
Second Murder: On August 26, 2024, Prince Ademola Akinloye, 38, son of Oba Adetunji Akinloye, Ojomu of Ajiran land, was shot multiple times along Chevron Road, Ajiran. Police say the same gang led by Safiu Fatai and Yusuf Ismaila executed the killing using a similar modus operandi.
CP Jimoh revealed that the suspects were paid ₦2 million by Ahmed Tajudeen Akanbi for the first killing and promised additional benefits, including travel opportunities and positions in society, to carry out further criminal acts.
While the murders occurred before CP Jimoh assumed office, the cases were reopened following new intelligence, leading to the arrests of Safiu Fatai on January 24, 2026, and Yusuf Ismaila on February 6, 2026.
The Commissioner of Police has now declared Alhaji Ahmed Tajudeen Akanbi, CEO/MD of HAMTAJAK & HALROMALK, along with Soji Mascot, Kenny, and Bode, wanted in connection with both murders. The last known address of Akanbi is Victoria Bay (Gate One), Royal Pine Estate, Orchid Road, Ikota, Lekki, Lagos State.
The police command stated that investigations are ongoing, and all suspects at large will be apprehended and brought to justice.
