Gunmen suspected to be cultists attacked a post-wedding celebration in Ikotun, Lagos State, on Saturday, killing two people including a bride’s father and a hypeman identified as Victor. The violent incident, which occurred along Oviawe Street off Governor’s Road, left residents in panic and forced businesses to close as people fled for safety. Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers stormed the event centre during an after-party, opening fire indiscriminately and causing chaos among guests.
The hypeman, Victor, was performing when the gunmen entered the venue. Witnesses said he was dragged outside and brutally assaulted with dangerous weapons. In a desperate attempt to intervene, the bride’s father rushed to plead for Victor’s life, but both men were shot and died on the spot. The attack was swift and merciless, leaving survivors traumatized and the community in shock.
Residents described the scene as chaotic, with people running in all directions to escape the gunfire. One resident, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the celebration had just ended when the gunmen arrived. “They were holding an after-party at the event centre. The gunmen came in and started shooting without warning,” the source said. Another resident added that the violence may not have been directly linked to the wedding, but rather connected to ongoing cult-related conflicts in the area.
Steve, a neighbour, said he was alerted by his wife and rushed outside to find Victor, a familiar face in the community, had been caught in the crossfire. “He’s someone I see around the street. He’s of small stature,” Steve said, expressing disbelief at the sudden loss. Despite the tragedy, the identities of the bride’s father and the attackers remain unconfirmed.
The Lagos State Police Command confirmed that the incident is under investigation. The spokesperson stated that the case would be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti without delay. “The matter is being investigated; it will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, today unfailingly,” she said. Authorities have not yet disclosed whether any suspects have been apprehended.
The attack has heightened fears in Ikotun, a community already grappling with insecurity linked to cult activities. Residents are calling for increased police presence and swift justice. This incident underscores the growing threat of violence in urban areas, particularly during public gatherings, and raises concerns about the safety of civilians caught in the crossfire of criminal conflicts. As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of two lives and awaits answers.
Leave a Comment