Five Killed as Cult Violence Grips Lagos Communities
By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa
Five people have been killed as rival cult violence erupted over the weekend in the Ilemba-Awori and Shibiri areas of Lagos.Â
The clashes sparked widespread panic, with armed groups roaming the streets using firearms and machetes.
The violence began in Etegbin before spreading to neighboring communities, forcing many residents to flee. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as frequent gunshots echoed throughout the Ojo Local Government Area.
A young man was shot dead at the Etegbin waterside shortly after playing football, marking one of the first fatalities. He was reportedly surrounded by attackers and killed on the spot, triggering retaliatory violence.
The unrest continued into Saturday evening, with reports of looting and robbery accompanying the cult clashes. Shop owners were forced to close their businesses and flee with their children to escape the armed youths.
The victims, all men in their 20s and 30s, have been moved to a morgue as security forces regained control.
The communities remained tense as residents stayed indoors to avoid the ongoing threat of violence.
The Lagos State Police Command confirmed that 18 suspects have been arrested in connection with the killings. The suspects are being transferred to the State CID, Panti, for further investigation and prosecution.
