A 12-year-old boy, identified simply as Wasiu, was tragically killed by a stray bullet during a violent clash between rival cult groups in the Mushin area of Lagos State.
The incident occurred around 8 p.m. on Wednesday in the Olosha area, where gunshots erupted during a confrontation between the groups. According to reports gathered by FCNN, Wasiu had gone to purchase food from a local vendor, popularly known as Iya Ibeji, when the violence broke out.
A resident, Tale Amoo, recounted the chaos that followed the gunfire. “We started hearing gunshots around 8 p.m., and people began running into their homes. Shop owners quickly closed up. Wasiu was waiting to buy food when he got caught in the crossfire while trying to escape,” Amoo said.
Another resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said Wasiu’s lifeless body was discovered after the violence had subsided.
Efforts to rush him to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) failed as the facility’s gate was reportedly shut.
“The tension in the area made it difficult for anyone to realise he had been hit on time. By the time residents found him, they tried taking him to LUTH, but the main gate was locked. Attempts to use an alternative gate were also hindered by the presence of the cultists,” the resident explained, adding that the community had been under siege from cult-related violence in recent days.
Another eyewitness described the night as one of terror. “The Mushin area, especially around LUTH, has been under attack. The gunfire lasted for hours. A child was killed in the midst of it all,” the resident said.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Vice Chairman of Mushin Local Government, Tubosun Aruwe, condemned the attack, describing it as senseless and deeply tragic.
“I am deeply saddened and appalled by the violent attack that occurred in Olosha. The loss of an innocent child’s life is a tragedy that strikes at the heart of our humanity,” Aruwe stated.
He extended condolences to the bereaved family and others affected by similar incidents, pledging to support them in seeking justice.
“My heart goes out to all the families affected. We will not relent in our call for justice. I urge security agencies to launch an immediate investigation and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice,” he added.
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Efforts to reach the Lagos State Police spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, for confirmation or updates on arrests were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls or messages as of Thursday.
