A 12-year-old boy, identified as Wasiu, tragically lost his life after being hit by a stray bullet during a clash between rival cult groups in the Olosha area of Mushin, Lagos State.
The incident occurred around 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday and caused widespread panic in the community.
According to eyewitnesses, Wasiu had gone out to buy food from a local vendor, popularly known as Iya Ibeji, when the gunfire broke out.
A resident, Tale Amoo, said the sudden outbreak of violence forced residents and business owners to flee or take cover. “We started hearing gunshots around 8:00 pm and people rushed into their homes. Shops were closed immediately,” Amoo recounted.
According to Amoo, Wasiu was caught in the crossfire while attempting to flee for safety. “He was at the food vendor’s stall waiting for his order when the chaos broke out. As he tried to escape, he was hit by a stray bullet,” he added.
Another resident, who requested anonymity, confirmed that Wasiu was found motionless after the gunfire subsided. Attempts to get him medical attention were unsuccessful, as the entrance to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) was reportedly closed at the time.
“The area was too tense. No one knew immediately that Wasiu had been shot. When some residents found him and tried to take him to LUTH, the main gate was locked. They attempted to use another route, but the presence of the cultists along the way prevented access,” the resident said.
Community members say Mushin has experienced heightened cult-related violence in recent days, with residents living in fear due to frequent clashes.
Another local, who also asked not to be named due to safety concerns, told reporters that gunfire had been heard intermittently in the area for hours. “There were continuous shootings from before 8 p.m. yesterday. The area near LUTH has been under siege. A child was killed during the violence,” the source said.
The Vice Chairman of Mushin Local Government Area, Tubosun Aruwe, issued a statement condemning the violence and expressing deep sorrow over the death of the child.
“I am deeply saddened and utterly appalled by the senseless and violent attack that occurred last night in the Olosha area. The loss of an innocent child is a tragedy that strikes at the core of our humanity,” Aruwe stated.
He extended his condolences to the bereaved family and other victims of similar attacks, promising to support efforts to bring those responsible to justice.
“My heart goes out to the families affected during this difficult time. We stand together as a community and demand swift justice for these tragic events,” he said.
Aruwe also urged security agencies to launch a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure those responsible are held accountable.