Four killed in clash at Ikola, Lagos

Four men died on Thursday after a disagreement turned violent at Power Line Bus Stop, Ikola, in Alimosho, Lagos State.

A resident, who asked to stay anonymous, said the trouble started between a northerner and a man believed to be a cult leader. The source explained, "What I know right now is that a Northerner stabbed a former leader of a cult group. This action triggered the riot that policemen from the Meiran Division had to call for reinforcement."

The resident also mentioned, "I can verify that one person is confirmed dead, with rumours of about three more deaths."

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency confirmed the incident. Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, the Permanent Secretary, stated that four people died in the clash. He added that many others suffered injuries during the fight.

Oke-Osanyintolu said they got a distress call about a fire outbreak at 1:52 PM and sent a response team. They reached the area about 25 minutes later. "Preliminary assessment and engagement with residents at the scene indicate that the incident followed a disagreement that escalated into communal unrest."

He continued, "Regrettably, four adult males lost their lives and several others sustained various degrees of injuries." Many makeshift structures were burned down in the unrest. Emergency medical help was provided to the injured by the Agbado Oke-Odo Ambulance Service, the Nigerian Red Cross Society, and other health workers.

The PS mentioned that the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service controlled the fire and checked for any further spread. Oke-Osanyintolu announced a joint security operation involving the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps to restore peace and protect lives and property.

He noted that the Chairman of Agbado Oke-Odo Local Council Development Area was present to help coordinate with community leaders. The emergency agency reported that peace had returned to Ikola and nearby areas, but security personnel stayed to prevent more trouble.

The PS urged residents to stay calm, avoid retaliation, and not spread false information that could worsen the situation. He stated that a full investigation had started to find out what caused the incident, adding that anyone found guilty would face the law.

Oke-Osanyintolu praised the emergency and security agencies, community leaders, and residents for their quick response and cooperation.