Six traders who tragically lost their lives during a violent incident at the Owode Onirin International Motor Spare Parts Market in Ketu, Lagos, have been laid to rest in Ikorodu.

The somber burials, which took place amidst an outpouring of grief and anguish, have reignited urgent calls for justice from their families and the wider community.

The incident, widely known as "Black Wednesday," occurred on August 27 of last year, marking a dark day in the market's history.

The fatal confrontation stemmed from intense tensions surrounding a disputed demolition of shops within the market, situated in the Agboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area.

Eyewitnesses reported that what initially began as resistance from traders against the demolition efforts quickly escalated into a violent clash, culminating in gunfire that claimed the lives of six individuals.

The deceased were identified as Seyi Akinboye, Adeoye Taiwo, Dare Mufutau, Aderemi Hakeem, Abraham Temoola, and Wale Adebayo, all of whom were described as hardworking individuals.

At the burial rites, held at Ikorodu General Hospital before the interment in Igbogbo, Ikorodu, relatives painted a picture of men who were primary providers for their families.

Their untimely deaths have left indelible scars on their loved ones, particularly their widows and children.

The sentiment among the numerous mourners was clear and unwavering: those responsible for the killings must be held fully accountable.

A grieving relative articulated this collective demand, stating, "These were innocent men trying to earn a living.”

In response to the tragedy, authorities have taken some steps, leading to the arraignment of four police officers: Manu Bala, Jibrin Samaila, Ibrahim Garuba and Ibrahim Kashimu.

These officers face charges of conspiracy and murder in connection with the incident and are currently in custody as legal proceedings advance.

However, the families of the victims have expressed significant dissatisfaction with the pace and scope of the investigation and prosecution.

They allege that the individual believed to have masterminded or orchestrated the controversial operation has yet to be brought to justice.

Consequently, the bereaved families have appealed directly to the government and other relevant authorities, urging them to ensure that every person involved in the fatal incident is thoroughly investigated and held accountable, irrespective of their position.

Human rights organizations have echoed these calls, condemning the killings and advocating for an independent probe into the events of "Black Wednesday."

Furthermore, these groups have stressed the importance of providing adequate compensation to the affected families to help them cope with their devastating losses.

The emotional ceremony in Igbogbo, Ikorodu, saw the community grappling with the profound aftermath of the tragedy.

Abiodun Ahmed, the Chairman of the Owode Onirin International Motor Spare Parts Market, reiterated the unwavering commitment of the traders to pursuing justice.

He solemnly vowed that the matter would not be forgotten and that the market leadership would continue to press for accountability until every individual responsible for the deaths of their members is brought to justice.