LAGOS, NIGERIA — The Centre for Citizens Right Protection (CCRP) has strongly rejected allegations made against it by the Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR), insisting that its involvement in the ongoing Ajiran Community crisis is driven solely by the pursuit of justice, constitutionalism, and the protection of citizens' rights.
In a detailed press conference issued on Wednesday, the CCRP accused CHSR of attempting to mislead the public through what it described as a politically motivated and sponsored intervention concerning the continued detention of Alhaji Ahmed Tajudeen Akanbi, popularly known as Alabi.
The organization said it was compelled to respond to claims made by CHSR during a June 8 press briefing, where groups questioning the conduct of investigations and prosecution in the Ajiran matter were allegedly portrayed as faceless agitators and enemies of justice.
Speaking on behalf of the organization, CCRP representative Kolawole Emmanuel maintained that the group is a recognized civil society body comprising legal practitioners, community leaders, human rights defenders, and public-interest advocates with a longstanding commitment to promoting justice across Nigeria.
"We reject entirely the attempt to delegitimize our advocacy through name-calling and unsubstantiated allegations," the group stated. "Our concern is not who is accused but whether the law is being followed."
Presumption of Innocence Must Be Respected
CCRP criticized CHSR for what it described as the uncritical repetition of police allegations against Akanbi, warning that allegations should not be treated as established facts before a competent court has made a determination.
According to the group, the foundation of Nigeria's justice system remains the constitutional principle of presumption of innocence, as guaranteed under Section 36 of the Constitution.
The organization argued that presenting police allegations as conclusive evidence amounts to conducting a media trial and undermines the integrity of judicial proceedings.
Questions Raised Over Alleged Confessions
Addressing references made by CHSR to purported confessional statements obtained from suspects, CCRP emphasized that the admissibility and credibility of such statements can only be determined by the courts.
The group noted that history has shown several instances where confessions were challenged, withdrawn, or deemed unreliable after judicial scrutiny.
"It is irresponsible to elevate disputed investigative materials to the level of judicial findings," the statement said.
Focus on Continued Detention
At the heart of the dispute, CCRP said, is the continued detention of Alhaji Ahmed Tajudeen Akanbi despite what it described as existing court orders and the prolonged absence of legal advice from the Lagos State Ministry of Justice.
The group expressed concern over delays in the issuance of legal guidance by the Office of the Attorney-General and the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), arguing that such delays have contributed significantly to the current impasse.
CCRP challenged prosecutorial authorities to explain why a citizen should remain in detention while critical prosecutorial decisions remain pending.
"If there is sufficient evidence, let the suspect be charged before a competent court and tried within the framework of the law," the organization stated.
Rejects Claims of Obstructing Justice
Responding to allegations that it was seeking to derail investigations or frustrate justice, CCRP insisted that it has never called for the abandonment of investigations or demanded immunity for any suspect.
Rather, the organization said its advocacy has consistently focused on ensuring that legal procedures are followed and constitutional safeguards respected.
The group argued that demanding compliance with court orders and due process should not be interpreted as an attempt to obstruct justice.
Defence of Judicial Remedies
CCRP also condemned criticism directed at individuals pursuing legal remedies through the courts, describing such criticism as a threat to constitutional democracy.
The organization stressed that seeking judicial intervention is a fundamental right and one of the core pillars of the rule of law.
According to the group, portraying court applications as efforts to frustrate law enforcement undermines public confidence in the judiciary and weakens democratic institutions.
Court Premises Incident
The rights group further faulted CHSR's account of events that reportedly occurred at court premises on June 4, 2026, describing the narrative as one-sided and lacking independent verification.
CCRP warned against drawing definitive conclusions regarding operational decisions by law enforcement authorities without a thorough and objective investigation.
Call for Immediate Legal Action
While supporting the speedy arraignment of suspects where sufficient evidence exists, CCRP emphasized that justice must apply equally to both victims and accused persons.
The organization called on investigative agencies, the Lagos State Attorney-General, and the Directorate of Public Prosecutions to expedite necessary legal processes and ensure that justice is administered fairly and transparently.
According to the group, the key issues remain the continued detention of Akanbi, alleged disregard for constitutional safeguards, and delays in prosecutorial action.
Commitment to Rule of Law
In its concluding remarks, CCRP reaffirmed its commitment to defending constitutional governance, accountability, and the protection of citizens' rights.
The organization rejected what it described as attempts to intimidate or silence voices demanding accountability from public institutions and warned against the growing trend of advocacy campaigns aimed at shaping public opinion while overlooking due process concerns.
"Justice cannot be selective. Justice cannot be driven by emotions. Justice cannot be sustained through media trials," the statement declared.
The group urged the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, the Attorney-General of Lagos State, the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, and other relevant authorities to respect court orders, issue necessary legal advice without delay, and ensure that all parties receive fair treatment under the law.
As debate over the Ajiran Community crisis continues, CCRP insists that adherence to due process and the rule of law remains the only path to achieving lasting justice for all concerned. :::
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