The Founder of DOHS Cares Foundation, Ololade Ajayi, has called on the Lagos State Police Command to immediately produce the prime suspect in the alleged rape and murder of Ms Okafor for investigation and prosecution, describing the delay as unacceptable.
Ajayi made the call in a statement on Friday while expressing grief over the killing of Ms Okafor in the Ajangbadi-Sangotedo area of Lagos.
According to her, available information indicates that the victim was sexually assaulted before she was brutally murdered, leaving her family and friends devastated.
Ajayi expressed concern that more than a week after the suspect’s arrest, the police were yet to transfer the individual to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, reportedly because the suspect was “not well enough” to be produced for further investigation.
She also raised concerns over allegations that other individuals may have been involved in the crime but have yet to be identified or apprehended.
“We cannot accept excuses in a case of this gravity. Femicide is a violent crime that demands urgency, transparency, and accountability,” she said.
The foundation urged the Lagos State Commissioner of Police to direct the immediate production of the suspect at SCID Panti to facilitate a comprehensive investigation.
Ajayi also called on the Lagos State Police Command to ensure that all persons allegedly connected to the crime are identified, investigated, and arrested where necessary.
She further appealed to the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to promptly take over the case file once police investigations are concluded to ensure speedy prosecution.
Emphasising the need for justice, Ajayi said delaying the investigation and prosecution would undermine public confidence in the criminal justice system.
“Justice delayed is justice denied. Ms Okafor deserves justice. Her family deserves closure, and women in Lagos deserve to feel safe,” she said.
She added that DOHS Cares Foundation would continue to monitor the case and collaborate with civil society organisations, legal practitioners, and the media until justice is served
