A teenager identified simply as Chike, who travelled from Delta State to visit a friend in Lagos was shot dead by suspected cultists in the Ikotun area of Lagos state
The incident, which occurred on Sunday, has thrown the community into mourning and renewed concerns over rising cult-related violence in parts of the state.
According to eyewitness accounts, the victim had accompanied a friend to a Point-of-Sale (PoS) outlet to withdraw cash. On their way back, they were reportedly approached by a group of young men who engaged them briefly before the situation suddenly turned violent.
An eyewitness, who gave his name as Abiodun, said the attackers opened fire at close range without warning.
“They spoke for a few seconds, and suddenly one of them brought out a gun and shot him. It all happened very fast,” he said.
The assailants immediately fled the scene, leaving the teenager in a pool of blood. His friend, who was with him at the time, was not harmed, a detail that has further deepened suspicion that the attack may have been targeted.
Residents of Ikotun were thrown into panic following the shooting, as people rushed for safety amid fears of further violence.
An anti-cultism advocacy platform later alleged that the killing could be linked to cult activities. According to the group, the attackers reportedly shouted slogans before and after the shooting, suggesting possible gang affiliation.
The platform also claimed that the victim had attempted to surrender his valuables, including cash and personal items, but was still shot.
Chike, said to be popularly known as “Ejanla,” was reportedly based in Asaba before his ill-fated visit to Lagos.
As of the time of filing this report, efforts to get an official response from the Lagos State Police Command were not successful.
