Odita Sunday 
South West Youth Alliance Defends AIG Jimoh, Demands Retraction Over Alleged Court Service Evasion Claims
The South West Youth Alliance (SWYA) has dismissed allegations that Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Olohundare Jimoh attempted to evade service of court processes in an ongoing fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by activist Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as “Soweto.”
The group, in a statement issued on Wednesday by its spokesperson, Adenike Ajanlekoko, described as false and misleading a report published by Sahara Reporters under the headline, “Former Lagos Police Commissioner, AIG Jimoh Moshood Accused Of Evading Court Service In Activist Soweto’s Rights Case”.
According to the alliance, the allegations were promoted by the Youth Rights Campaign (YRC) without factual basis and were aimed at damaging the reputation of the senior police officer.
The SWYA maintained that there was no attempt by AIG Jimoh to avoid being served court documents in the case, which centres on allegations of torture, assault, and violation of constitutional rights during a protest in Lagos.
Citing proceedings before the court, the group said counsel representing Taiwo Hassan, Barrister Ogbeibo, who appeared on behalf of Barrister Joseph Opute, informed the court that the claimant’s legal team had already served both the first and second court processes on the legal representatives of AIG Jimoh. The lawyer also reportedly notified the court that a fresh motion had been filed.
The alliance argued that this development contradicted claims by the YRC that the police officer was making a desperate effort to evade service of court documents.
“The narrative being circulated is false and intended to mislead the public and undermine confidence in the judicial process,” the statement said.
The group further challenged allegations that court bailiffs had made repeated attempts to serve the AIG at the Zone 2 Police Command Headquarters but were allegedly obstructed by officers under his command, describing the claims as speculative and unsupported by verifiable evidence presented before the court.
The SWYA called on the Youth Rights Campaign to retract the allegations and issue an unreserved public apology to AIG Jimoh for what it described as reputational damage caused by the claims.
The alliance also urged civil society organisations and advocacy groups to exercise caution and responsibility in their public statements, particularly on matters that are before the courts.
Reaffirming its confidence in the Nigeria Police Force’s accountability mechanisms, the group said the institution remained committed to professionalism, transparency, and oversight.
The case was subsequently adjourned until October 28, 2026, for further proceedings. The South West Youth Alliance said it would continue to monitor developments and resist what it described as attempts to distort facts surrounding the matter.
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