A violent clash between two rival cult gangs, the Aiye and Eiye confraternities, resulted in three deaths and multiple injuries on Wednesday night in the Shomolu area of Lagos. The clash, which involved the use of firearms, cutlasses, and wooden planks, initially erupted in the Ladi-Lack area of Bariga around 8 pm before spreading to Shomolu.
According to Ojo Dauda, a vulcanizer at the Ladi-Lack Junction, three members of the cult groups were fatally shot during the clash. Dauda added, “Sherif Oba was rescued by his gang members with a deep machete cut on his head.”
Emeka, the owner of a chemist in the area, noted that he had noticed preparations by cultists to mark the upcoming “777 Day” early last week. He further explained that on Wednesday night, gunshots were heard around 8 pm, causing shop owners to quickly close their businesses out of fear of getting caught in the crossfire.
Emeka stated, “The sporadic shooting started last night around the Idi-Aba area, which is known to be a hideout for notorious cultists and a major base for drug dealers. It later spread to Akilo, Sungas, and Olorunkemi Street in the Shomolu area, where passersby sustained injuries.”
Benjamin Hundeyin, the Lagos State police spokesman, confirmed the fatalities and stated that no arrests had been made at the time. He reassured the public that normalcy had been restored in the area.
The clash between the rival cult gangs underscores the ongoing issue of cult violence in parts of Lagos. Authorities will likely intensify efforts to address the root causes of these conflicts and enhance security measures to prevent further loss of life and maintain peace in the affected areas.
