After Months on the Run, Lagos Police Arrest Hotel Barman Accused of Brutal Killing as Family Demands Justice

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a hotel barman who had been on the run for months following the alleged killing of a young Lagos resident, Femi Apata, in a case that sparked public outrage and allegations of police negligence.

The suspect, identified as Fatai, also known as “Sparton,” was apprehended after fleeing since May 2025, when Apata was reportedly stabbed to death at Precious Light Hotel in the Badaru area of Lagos State. Following the incident, the suspect disappeared, prompting calls from the victim’s family and rights advocates for decisive police action.

Sources revealed that the suspect was placed on a police watchlist shortly after the killing, especially after media reports raised alarm over the circumstances surrounding the crime and alleged attempts to downplay the case. He is currently being held at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Lagos.

Family members of the deceased have welcomed the arrest but expressed deep concern over the prolonged delay, noting that the suspect’s escape prolonged their pain and denied them closure. They have urged the police to ensure that the case is handled transparently and without further delays.

The killing of Femi Apata reportedly occurred in the early hours of May 3, 2025. Witnesses alleged that the suspect stabbed the victim inside the hotel while residents of the area were asleep. The incident drew further controversy after claims that hotel staff failed to intervene and that bloodstains at the scene were cleaned up shortly after the attack.

The victim’s family has also accused the police of initially mishandling the case, alleging that the hotel owner and manager were released shortly after their arrest and that investigators cited a lack of logistics as a reason for failing to track the suspect.

With the suspect now in custody, the family and community members are calling on authorities to ensure that justice is served and that those found culpable either directly or indirectly—are held accountable.