JUST IN: Lagos Police Arraign Alleged Serial Killer and Most Wanted Criminal, Olori Esho

The Lagos State Police Command has arraigned 44-year-old Wasiu Akinwande, popularly known as Olori Esho, before the Ogba Magistrate Court on Tuesday over multiple charges, including murder, attempted murder, and possession of firearms. Described by authorities as one of Nigeria’s most wanted and vicious criminal suspects, Akinwande appeared under heavy security at the Samuel Ilori Courthouse in Ogba.

The arraignment followed an intensive manhunt that led to his arrest at a hideout in Agbado, Ogun State. During the operation, police reportedly recovered a cache of arms and ammunition, including AK-47 rifles and fake international passports.

Akinwande faces an 11-count charge brought against him by the state, ranging from conspiracy and unlawful possession of firearms to multiple counts of murder, grievous bodily harm, and threat to life. He is accused of killing at least eight people and leaving a woman permanently disabled. He pleaded not guilty to all charges.

At the courthouse, emotions ran high as relatives of one of the alleged victims spoke to journalists. Quadri Yusuf, younger brother of the late Bolakale Yusuf, claimed that Akinwande shot and killed his elder brother in July 2024 before fleeing the scene. Their mother, Hadjia Bolakale Yusuf, also present at the court, called for justice, describing her son’s death as a devastating loss.

Before his arrest, Akinwande was reportedly feared across several communities, particularly in the Mushin area of Lagos, where he allegedly operated as a criminal kingpin and hired killer.