Pandemonium erupted yesterday following a deadly clash between rival cult groups in the Shomolu-Bariga area of Lagos State, resulting in the deaths of three individuals whose identities remain unknown.
According to reports, one person who sustained a gunshot wound during the gunfight is currently in a coma at an undisclosed hospital.
The cause of the clash remains unclear, but sources attribute it to an ongoing war of supremacy between the Neo-Black Movement, also known as Aye Black Axe, and the Eiye Confraternity.
A resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that the sporadic shooting began last night in the Idi-Aba area, known for its association with notorious cultists and drug dealers. The violence then spread to Akilo, Sungas, and Olorunkemi Street in the Shomolu area, resulting in injuries to innocent passersby.
The clash that occurred on Wednesday night is believed to be a warning of more violence to come, as the cultists plan to mark their annual 7/7 celebration on July 7.
Residents are now calling on the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Idowu Owohunwa, to intervene and provide assistance, as the cultists have reportedly threatened to avenge the killings on this day, regardless of the consequences.
As of now, the spokesperson for the Lagos Police Command, Benjamin Hundeyin, has not responded to text messages or answered calls. The situation is of great concern, especially considering that Lagos State has witnessed numerous cult-related conflicts, resulting in the loss of 14 lives over the past five months.
In response to the escalating violence, the police recently paraded 17 suspects arrested in Ikorodu, Badagry, and Isolo. Commissioner Owohunwa has urged tactical teams to work diligently to minimize the activities of cultists in the state.
