5 killed in cult violence in Lagos

Five people have been killed in cult-related violence in the Ilemba-Awori area of Lagos. The latest clashes occurred over the weekend in Ilemba-Awori and Shibiri communities in Ojo Local Government Area, where rival cult groups engaged in violent confrontations. Eyewitnesses said gunshots and screams were heard as armed youths wielding guns, machetes and other weapons […]

Five people have been killed in cult-related violence in the Ilemba-Awori area of Lagos.

The latest clashes occurred over the weekend in Ilemba-Awori and Shibiri communities in Ojo Local Government Area, where rival cult groups engaged in violent confrontations.

Eyewitnesses said gunshots and screams were heard as armed youths wielding guns, machetes and other weapons roamed the streets.

The violence reportedly began in Etegbin and later spread to Ilemba and Shibiri, forcing residents to flee.

A resident said the first casualty was recorded on Friday at Etegbin waterside, where a young man was shot dead shortly after playing football.

“The gunmen cornered him and killed him on the spot,” the eyewitness said.

Residents said the violence continued into Saturday evening, with reports of looting and robbery.

A trader, Esther, said she hurriedly shut her shop and fled with her daughter after spotting armed youths advancing along Shibiri Road.

The victims, said to be males in their 20s and 30s, have been deposited in a mortuary.

The Lagos State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that 18 suspects have been arrested and will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, for further investigation and prosecution.