At least four people are feared dead after fresh cult-related violence broke out in several parts of Lagos State within the past week.
Findings showed that the clashes occurred between Wednesday and Monday in different areas, including Iyana-Ipaja and Aboru in Alimosho Local Government Area, Badore and Olokonla in Ajah under Eti-Osa Local Government Area, as well as Onipanu near Fadeyi and Satellite Town.
In Badore, a man identified simply as Chidera was reportedly killed on Friday during a confrontation involving suspected members of the Eiye confraternity and a rival group.
Videos and photographs reviewed on Monday showed several injured persons in Iyana-Ipaja and Aboru. The footage, which surfaced on Naija Confra, an anti-cultism platform, captured at least three individuals with deep cuts to their heads and shoulders, with blood visible on their bodies. One of the injured victims was seen holding a blood-soaked cloth against a serious head wound.
Although it could not be independently confirmed that the injuries resulted directly from cult clashes, other individuals in the videos had their faces blurred and appeared to be receiving treatment for severe injuries.
In a related development, violence was also reported in the Onipanu area near Fadeyi, where a man identified as Israel was shot dead. The suspected attacker reportedly recorded the incident. In a video obtained on Monday, the victim was seen dressed in a light blue top and trousers, with a black bag strapped across his neck and waist. Despite showing signs of movement after the initial gunshot to the head, the attackers were seen firing additional shots until he lay motionless in another clip from the same incident.
At Satellite Town, another man was found dead at the NEPA Junction last Wednesday. It remains unclear if the killing was linked to cult activity.
While official confirmation was awaited on several of the reported incidents, another killing was reported on Monday morning at Baba Adisa Bus Stop in Ibeju-Lekki. The victim, identified only as Alabama, was found lifeless on the pavement. He was said to be wearing a black shirt and a ring on his left ear.
As of press time, the Lagos State Police Command had yet to issue an official statement on the reported killing in Ibeju-Lekki.
However, the command’s spokesperson, Mrs Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed the incident at Satellite Town. She described it as a suspected murder.
In a text message on Tuesday, Adebisi said, “The receipt of these incidents from you yesterday prompted me to reach out to all the DPOs in charge of the locations you mentioned. None confirmed the incidents, except the one at Satellite Town, which was confirmed as a suspected murder.
“The case is under investigation and will be transferred to the SCID, Panti, as soon as possible.”
The police have continued efforts to curb violent crimes and reprisal attacks across the state. Last year, no fewer than 10 people lost their lives within 10 days in incidents linked to cult violence in Lagos.
