The Lagos State police command has restored normalcy in Ikola, after a clash between touts and tricycle riders on Thursday, over N200, led to the death three people, while two others were injured and some buildings set alight.
Spokesperson for the command, Abimbola Adebisi, in a statement, explained that the violence ensued after a tricycle rider refused to pay the money demanded by some touts, who thereafter seized his vehicle, which prompted the rider to bring others to assist him in confronting them.
Mrs Adebisi said, “The Lagos State Police Command has restored calm following a violent incident that occurred today in the Ikola axis of the state. Preliminary information indicates that trouble started when some suspected area boys allegedly stopped a tricycle rider and demanded the sum of ₦200. The rider reportedly refused to pay, following which the tricycle was allegedly seized by the group.
“The rider subsequently returned with some persons, leading to a violent confrontation between the two groups. Sadly, three (3) persons were reportedly killed, while two (2) others sustained injuries. Some buildings were also reportedly set ablaze during the ensuing violence. The deceased and injured persons have been taken to the Military Hospital, Yaba, for necessary medical attention and other procedures.”
The Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, in company of Commander 9 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Afolabi Owolabi, visited the scene to assess the situation and coordinate the security response.
“Operatives of the Command comprising personnel of the RRS, Taskforce, Tactical Squad, PMF, Eko Strike Force, and VCRU have been deployed to the area and are currently maintaining law and order. The situation is firmly under control, and efforts are ongoing to prevent any further escalation.”
Mrs Adebisi said investigation into the incident has commenced and vowed to ensure that anyone found culpable is made to face the full weight of the law.
The command, while urging residents to be calm, refrain from spreading unverified information, and avoid actions capable of escalating the situation, encouraged them to provide the police credible information that may assist the investigation.