LAGOS, NIGERIA — Residents of Sogunro community in Lagos State have been thrown into panic following an alleged attack by armed youths from the neighbouring Iwaya community.
The attack reportedly left five people dead and eight others injured.
The Attack
The Coalition Against Demolition, Forced Eviction, Landgrabbing and Displacement in Lagos State raised the alarm in a statement on Friday.
The group demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of those behind the killings.
The coalition alleged that the violence occurred around midnight between November 1 and 2. It said some youths from Iwaya invaded Sogunro over residents’ refusal to provide money for a party.
According to the group, the assailants stormed the community with firearms, axes, and other dangerous weapons.
They killed at least five people and left eight others with injuries that required hospital treatment.
Methods of Attack
The coalition further alleged that the attackers used different methods to kill their victims. These included shooting and hacking them with axes.
One of the victims was reportedly struck on the neck with an axe. At least one corpse was allegedly thrown into a canal.
The coalition also accused the attackers of destroying and looting valuable properties during the raid.
Failure to Arrest Suspects
Expressing concern over the incident, the group faulted the alleged failure to arrest those responsible. This is despite the reported deaths and the scale of destruction.
It said the attack had created fear among residents. This has forced some people living close to the boundary between the two communities to abandon their homes.
According to the coalition, some of those displaced by the violence have taken refuge in boats and the homes of neighbours along the waterfront. They are trying to avoid possible further attacks.
Call for Investigation
The group called on the police to launch an immediate investigation. It also urged them to apprehend those involved and ensure their prosecution.
It demanded adequate security to prevent another outbreak of violence.
Police Response
Efforts to obtain the reaction of the Lagos State Police Command were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
The command’s spokesperson, Abimbola Adebisi, had yet to respond to a message sent to her.
What This Means
The incident highlights the security challenges in some Lagos communities. It also underscores the need for improved policing and community relations.
The attack has left residents in fear and displaced many from their homes.
What Happens Next
The police are expected to investigate the incident. The coalition has vowed to continue pressing for justice for the victims.
For now, the focus is on restoring peace and security to the affected communities. The coming days will reveal whether the authorities will take action.
