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By Bianca Iboma-Emefu
Lagos State, Nigeria’s bustling economic hub, has long been a melting pot of diverse cultures, vibrant markets, thriving businesses and lively communities. However, beneath its lively surface, a disturbing wave of cult-related violence has begun to threaten the peace and safety of residents. Recent incidents—marked by indiscriminate shootings and brutal killings—have cast a dark shadow over the state, raising urgent concerns about the rising tide of cult activities and their devastating consequences.
Over the past few weeks, Lagos has witnessed a surge in violent clashes involving rival cult groups, with young adults leading the bloody confrontations. These groups, often engaged in territorial disputes and power struggles, have resorted to firearms, unleashing chaos across various parts of the city. The violence has not only resulted in the tragic loss of lives but has also created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among the populace.
One of the most alarming incidents occurred around Onireke, opposite Ojo Barracks, Badagry Expressway, Lagos, where six young persons—including two women returning from their workplaces or businesses—were caught in a barrage of gunfire. Witnesses recounted that the gunmen, suspected members of rival cult factions, opened fire indiscriminately, leaving the victims dead at the scene. A woman who managed to survive the attack died hours later after being rushed to the hospital.
The incident sent shockwaves through the community, with residents describing how the sound of gunshots shattered the tranquility of that evening.
“I heard multiple gunshots and saw the youths lying on the ground, bleeding,” said a witness who preferred to remain anonymous. “It was a terrible sight. They were just returning from their shops when they were caught in the crossfire.”
The police arrived swiftly and cordoned off the area, but the damage had already been done. The identities of the victims remain unknown, and many hope the authorities will launch investigations to identify those responsible.
In another brutal assault, a rival cult group pursued a meat seller inside the abattoir at Ojo Military Barracks, known as Odo-Eran, shooting him dead in what appeared to be a vendetta. The victim, whose name has not been disclosed, was reportedly targeted because of his alleged ties to a rival faction—or perhaps as collateral damage in the ongoing gang rivalry.
Residents of the area have expressed outrage and concern over the recurrent violence. “This is becoming too much. Innocent people are dying because of these cult wars,” lamented a resident. “We need the authorities to step in and put an end to this madness.”
Meanwhile, a young man who identified himself as Bassey mentioned that, in Abule Osun community, a promising young man was shot and found dead the following morning. He explained that those involved go after their rivals with different weapons, believing it offers protection. However, most of them are killed with machetes, stones or guns. Once they realize that guns cannot kill their rivals, they resort to other weapons.
Additionally, a 19-year-old boy was killed around Ira quarters. Unfortunately, the boy—who was the first son of his mother—had gone to a barbing salon for a haircut but met his untimely death after being shot when authorities traced a rival member to that salon who escaped before their arrival. This incident was particularly tragic, as an innocent teenager simply going for a haircut lost his life.
Another incident occurred at Muwo, near Ira quarters, around the Volkswagen area, along the Badagry Expressway. Philomena, a resident, narrated the tragic death of Ejiro’s younger brother, who was caring for their aged father. He was murdered in his shop while doing his craft.
Philomena said that the boy had a girlfriend, and he was warned about her. They decided that separation was best, but the girl later came to his shop to speak with him. Unknown to them, she was followed. When she stepped out, Ejiro’s brother was shot dead.
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The recent spike in cult violence in Lagos is part of a disturbing trend across Nigeria, especially in urban centres where youthful exuberance often degenerates into violence. Cult groups such as the Vikings, Black Axe and Eiye Confraternity have been linked to numerous criminal activities, including killings, drug trafficking and extortion.
Experts warn that the resurgence of cultism is driven by a combination of socio-economic factors, peer pressure and a lack of effective youth engagement programmes. Many young adults, feeling marginalized or seeking identity and belonging, fall prey to cult groups that promise power and protection.
The consequences of cult violence extend beyond immediate casualties. Schools are temporarily shut down, businesses suffer losses and communities live in fear. Parents worry about their children’s safety and law enforcement agencies face mounting pressure to curb the menace.
In Lagos, efforts to combat cultism have included police raids, community sensitization programmes and legal measures aimed at prosecuting offenders. However, the resilience of these groups and their deep-rooted presence in certain communities continue to pose significant challenges.
Furthermore, about a year ago, a reporter visited Eteland after a tragic incident in a riverine community, where unidentified young men in black stormed the area, shooting and using machetes to attack residents.
Residents and leaders of Eteland-Egan Oriomi, in the Oto-Awori Local Council Development Area of Lagos State, explained how they were attacked at night by youths dressed in black, leading to the death of a 15-month-old baby who was burned alive, as well as injuries to middle-aged women and others in the community.
Some residents recounted the incident: Mr. Badirudeen Amusa, a victim, described how the cultists stormed their community, shooting and attacking residents with machetes, looting shops and homes, and burning property worth millions. The traditional ruler’s palace was not spared either.
These cultists, who besieged the community at night, arrived when the police could not come immediately. By the time help arrived, significant damage had already been done. The house of the oldest woman in the village was burned down.
Another victim, Emmanuel’s mother, narrated how she was cooking around 8pm while her 15-month-old son was sleeping. When they heard gunshots and saw people running, she fled the scene without her child. The cultists used machetes to attack everyone in their homes. When they reached her house, her son was dumped in the toilet, and her house was set ablaze. Her husband worked in Lagos and only returned on weekends. She was left alone, with her father returning from the farm, who had multiple machete wounds.
Stakeholders are calling for a multi-pronged approach to tackle rising cult violence. These include increased intelligence gathering, community policing, youth empowerment initiatives and strict enforcement of laws against cult activities. They emphasize the importance of collaboration among traditional rulers, religious leaders, parents and civil society to identify and rehabilitate at-risk youths.
Security agencies need to intensify operations and protect lives and property. The Lagos State Government must also reaffirm its commitment to restoring peace and ensuring that criminal elements are brought to justice.
As Lagos grapples with this alarming wave of cult violence, the urgency for a united effort to stem the tide becomes clearer. The city’s vibrant spirit must not be overshadowed by darkness and fear. Protecting innocent lives should remain a collective priority, and all stakeholders must work tirelessly to reclaim Lagos from the grip of cult-related chaos.
The recent incidents serve as a stark reminder that cultism is a menace threatening not just individuals but the social fabric of Lagos itself. Only through vigilance, community engagement, and unwavering law enforcement can the city hope to turn the tide and restore lasting peace.
