By Ebenezer Mabinuola
In a major breakthrough against violent crime, the Lagos State Police Command has arrested the state’s most-wanted assassin and cult leader, Wasiu Akinwande, alias Olori Eso. The 44-year-old fugitive was captured on June 20 in a covert operation by the Command’s elite squad at his hideout in Agbado, Ogun State.
Akinwande had evaded arrest for over a decade while orchestrating a reign of terror across Lagos—particularly in Mushin—linked to armed robbery, kidnapping, and cult-related killings. Described by authorities as “the most vicious and notorious hired killer in recent Lagos history,” his arrest is hailed as a watershed moment in the fight against entrenched criminal networks.
Police recovered a cache of weapons from his Mushin residence, including two AK-47s, one K2 assault rifle, pump-action guns, locally made pistols, 70 rounds of 5.56mm ammo, and nine international passports belonging to different individuals.
From 2009 to 2024, Akinwande is believed to have led multiple gangs responsible for high-profile murders and violent attacks that left several communities reeling. Four families have already identified him as the killer of their children.
The Deputy Commissioner of Police, SCID, is leading an intensive investigation to expose his full network and track remaining accomplices.
Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, praised the bravery of the operatives involved.
“No criminal, no matter how notorious, is beyond justice,” he said, urging citizens to support police efforts with timely information.
Akinwande remains in custody and faces prosecution for multiple capital crimes.
