Pandemonium broke out in the Ikotun area of Lagos on Saturday after suspected cultists allegedly shot dead a bride’s father and a hypeman identified simply as Victor during a wedding after-party.
The attack was said to have occurred on Oviawe Street, off Governor’s Road, shortly after the wedding ceremony had ended and guests moved to an after-party in the community.
Eyewitnesses said the assailants stormed the venue while the celebration was still ongoing, causing guests to flee for safety as gunshots rang out.
A resident, identified simply as Tosin, said Victor was entertaining guests when the attackers struck.
According to him, the gunmen entered the gathering and opened fire indiscriminately, throwing the venue into chaos as guests ran in different directions.
He added that the attackers allegedly singled out Victor, dragged him outside onto the street, and began assaulting him with dangerous weapons.
Another resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the bride’s father attempted to intervene and plead with the attackers but was shot in the process.
The source said both men were shot during the confrontation and died on the spot.
The incident reportedly sent shockwaves across the neighbourhood, with residents and business owners hurriedly shutting their doors and seeking safety indoors.
Residents said the attack may not have been directly connected to the wedding ceremony but could be linked to ongoing cult-related violence in the area, suggesting the attackers may have been trailing a target before innocent persons became victims.
A resident identified as Steve described Victor as a familiar face in the neighbourhood, saying he was shocked to learn that the hypeman was among those killed.
As of the time of filing this report, the identities of the bride’s father and the attackers had yet to be confirmed.
Confirming the incident on Monday, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command said the case was under investigation and would be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, for further investigation.
The latest attack adds to growing concerns over cult-related violence in Lagos, coming weeks after three men were reportedly hacked to death by suspected cultists in the Lagos Island area of the state.
