Court Orders Remand of Two Teenagers Over Alleged Murder of RCCG Pastor

 

by Joshua Omoniyi

A Chief Magistrate Court in Yaba, Lagos State, recently ordered the remand of two teenagers, Farouk Mohammed (16) and Kasali Jamiu (19), in connection with the alleged murder of Pastor Babatunde Dada of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). The incident, which has shocked the community, unfolded on December 3, 2021, at Road 13, 6th Avenue, Festac Town, Lagos.

Incident Overview

Details of the Crime:

The prosecution alleges that the two teenagers, along with accomplices, conspired to murder Pastor Dada by attacking him with a bottle and wood. Additional suspects, Mumuni Toheeb (21) and Mubarak Soliu (20), have been implicated for allegedly receiving a Techno Spark S phone valued at N60,000, which belonged to the deceased.

Court Proceedings and Decisions:

During the session, Magistrate Linda Balogun ordered that Mohammed be remanded at the Special Correctional Centre for Boys in Oregun, given his minor status. Meanwhile, Jamiu was directed to remain at the Ikoyi Correctional Center until further legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) is received. In contrast, suspects Toheeb and Soliu were granted bail set at N200,000 each. Conditions for their release include verification of employment, a confirmed residential address, and proof of tax payment to the Lagos State government.

Legal and Community Implications

Legal Charges:

The defendants face multiple charges including conspiracy, murder, and receiving stolen property. These charges fall under sections 411, 223, and 328(1) of the Criminal Laws of Lagos, 2015. The court has adjourned the case until February 14, 2022, as it awaits further instructions based on the DPP’s advice.

Impact on the Community:

The tragic loss of Pastor Dada has deeply affected the congregation and the local community. As a respected spiritual leader, his demise has not only left a void but has also sparked discussions around the rising trend of youth involvement in violent crimes. The community remains hopeful that the judicial process will deliver justice swiftly.

Conclusion

As legal proceedings continue, the community watches closely with expectations of accountability and a safeguard for its leaders. This case highlights pressing concerns regarding the influences that drive youth toward crime and the urgent need for community-based interventions.