A Magistrates’ Court in Osogbo has ordered the remand of five suspects, including the Chief Imam of Ummu Haani Adigun Memorial Central Mosque, in connection with the death of a 35-year-old worshipper who was allegedly beaten during morning prayers at the mosque.
The accused are led by 51-year-old cleric Abdulgafar Sakariyah, along with Kosamot Hakeem (50), Folorunsho Mukaila (57), Sakariyau Hafeez (45), and another individual. They face charges related to the fatal assault, which reportedly occurred amid a disruption during the service.
The remand order was issued on Tuesday at the Magistrates’ Court in Osogbo, Osun State, following their arraignment by the Osun State Police Command, pending the completion of investigations and legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions.
The incident occurred on January 30, 2026, at the Ummu Haani Adigun Memorial Central Mosque in the Ayedun Ogo Oluwa area of Osogbo. The victim, identified as Ahmed Najeem (also reported as Najeem Hammed), a car painter, reportedly disrupted the prayers, prompting worshippers to intervene. The situation allegedly escalated into mob violence, resulting in his death.
The suspects have claimed they only attempted to subdue the deceased to protect the Imam until police arrived, but the situation was allegedly taken over by a mob, leading to the fatal outcome.
The case has reignited public debate over the dangers of mob justice in religious settings, with authorities stressing the need for restraint and proper law enforcement intervention to prevent such tragedies.
