Family Raises Health and Rights Concerns Amid Police Custody in Sagamu.
Family Raises Health and Rights Concerns Amid Police Custody in Sagamu.
A mother and her two sons are currently in police custody in Sagamu, Ogun State, following a dispute over a fish pond behind their family house. Anota Ademola, along with her sons, Ademola Lukman and Ademola Riliwon, were detained at a local police station after a disagreement that escalated unexpectedly.
The family had raised concerns about a strong odour emanating from the fish pond, which they claimed was causing health issues. Additionally, they cited problems with the neighborhood’s toilet and drainage systems, which they said were contributing to unsanitary conditions. The situation reportedly worsened when Ademola Lukman approached the landowner involved, seeking clarification on whether the land behind their father’s house had been leased or sold to someone else, as part of their efforts to understand who was responsible for the land and its activities.
Trouble began early Wednesday morning around 7:00 a.m., when the other party involved allegedly consulted a lawyer, leading to the family’s arrest. The detained family members have maintained that they explained their grievances—specifically the odour, drainage, and sanitation issues—to police officers, hoping for a peaceful resolution.
Since their detention, the family has expressed serious health concerns. One of the sons is known to be an ulcer patient, and they worry that the stress from the detention and the unsanitary conditions could adversely affect his health. They also disclosed that they have been informed the case might be transferred to Abeokuta, the state capital, for further legal proceedings.
In a public appeal, the family urged human rights organizations, legal practitioners, and members of the public to pay attention to their plight. They emphasized that they are not seeking violence or threats but are simply requesting a fair and lawful handling of the matter. Their primary concern is to understand their rights and ensure justice is served without intimidation or bias.
Human rights advocates and legal professionals interested in assisting the family have been encouraged to reach out. The family hopes that through legal aid and public support, their situation will be addressed transparently and fairly, ensuring their rights are protected amidst the dispute over the fish pond and surrounding sanitation issues.
