By Ghazali Ibrahim
There is growing concern over the safety of a Lagos union chairman, Akinola Odewabi, who was stabbed by Olamide, the son of a prominent market leader (Iyaloja) in Ikorodu, as he now claims to be receiving threats to his life from the accused, who is currently out on bail.
The victim, who is a member of the Road Transport Employee Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), exclusively told BlackBox Nigeria that the accused — who was arraigned in court weeks ago for stabbing him in the eye, has been threatening further harm.
“I was shocked when he told someone close to me that if our paths cross again, he will make sure he blinds my other eye,” the victim alleged.
“This is coming from someone who is already facing trial for taking one of my eyes.”
The accused, who had been remanded after his arraignment at a Lagos Magistrate Court, was recently granted bail while the case remains ongoing.
Sources familiar with the matter say the case stems from abuse of power, authority and influence of his mother’s position in the community.
The victim, a known union figure, was left with serious injuries after the stabbing incident and has since been undergoing treatment.
He had earlier expressed confidence in the justice system but now fears for his safety as the legal process unfolds.
“I reported to the authorities, but I’m not sure enough is being done to protect me. If anything happens to me, let it be on record that he made threats,” he said.
Efforts to reach the Lagos State Police Command for comment on the reported threats were unsuccessful as of press time.
Legal analysts have raised concerns over the need for stricter bail conditions in cases involving violence, especially when the victim’s safety is at risk.
The case is expected to continue in court in the coming weeks.
