Man Blindfolded, Removed From Lagos Court by Osun Officers, Faces Same Charges

Man Blindfolded, Removed From Lagos Court by Osun Officers, Faces Same Charges

LAGOS/OSOGBO — The Osun State Police Command is facing scrutiny after allegedly blindfolding and forcibly removing a defendant, Oyekunle Oyewunmi, from a Lagos court to Oshogbo, where he was made to face the same criminal charges. The incident has raised serious concerns about due process, fair trial rights, and constitutional safeguards.

Oyewunmi, who was standing trial in a Chief Magistrate’s Court in Yaba, Lagos, on charges of obtaining money by false pretence and issuing a dud cheque, was granted bail in July 2025 with two sureties, including a relative in Lagos. (fij.ng)

According to his lawyer, Olaseni Oladapo Ajayi, police officers allegedly entered the Lagos courtroom on January 27, 2026, blindfolded Oyewunmi, and transported him to Osun State. The defendant was reportedly detained for over a week before being arraigned in Oshogbo Magistrate Court on the same offences. Ajayi described the removal as “a flagrant violation of Section 36(9) of the Nigerian Constitution,” which protects against double jeopardy.

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The lawyer further alleged that Oyewunmi was placed in a cold, wet cell alongside hardened criminals, bandits, and kidnappers, calling the conduct a “criminal conspiracy” aimed at undermining justice. He has petitioned the Chief Registrar of Lagos Courts and the Police Service Commission, seeking investigation and sanctions against all officers involved.

The Lagos State Police Command has stated that it was unaware of the transfer, while Osun State authorities have yet to publicly explain the operation.

Legal experts warn that the incident reflects a serious breach of due process and fair trial rights, noting that defendants should only be transferred to another jurisdiction through proper legal channels. The case has reignited broader debates about police conduct in Nigeria, adherence to constitutional safeguards, and protection of human rights.

Civil society groups point to similar controversies in past cases, including the 2024 extradition of activist Dele Farotimi, which also sparked nationwide discussions on police powers and defendants’ rights. (en.wikipedia.org)

The case of Oyewunmi remains sub judice, with his counsel seeking judicial review and appropriate disciplinary measures against the officers involved. Observers say the incident may set an important precedent for law enforcement accountability in criminal proceedings across Nigeria.

Man Blindfolded, Removed From Lagos Court by Osun Officers, Faces Same Charges