The Lagos State Police Command has debunked viral claims of armed bandits invading Ibeju-Lekki, Imota, and Oke-Afo, after the false report triggered a mob attack that killed a 24-year-old motorcycle rider.
Police spokesperson CSP Abimbola Adebisi said on Monday that the social media posts, along with graphic videos and images, were false and aimed at stirring panic. She confirmed there has been no invasion or attack on any community or school in Lagos, adding that officers continue to patrol strategic locations across the state to keep residents safe.
The misinformation turned deadly when youths in one community, convinced bandits had entered the area, attacked Kulaha Ayuba. Police said the young okada rider was labelled a Fulani bandit, beaten to death, and his motorcycle stolen before his body was dumped in a swamp. Fifteen suspects have since been arrested, and the command promised that everyone involved will face the full weight of the law.
Adebisi also flagged another clip making the rounds online that claimed to show the recent arrest of armed Fulani men in Ikorodu. She clarified that the video is more than three years old and has no link to current events in Lagos, warning that recycling old content as fresh news only fuels fear.
Condemning the spread of unverified reports, the police said fake news encourages ethnic profiling, mob action, and public disorder. The command urged residents to ignore such posts and confirm information through official channels, stressing that anyone who creates or deliberately shares inciting content will be prosecuted.
The warning comes as political tensions build ahead of the 2027 general elections. Former Lagos APC spokesperson Seye Oladejo had earlier cautioned against using insecurity for political gain, noting that banditry and kidnapping affect all Nigerians.
Commissioner of Police Tijani Fatai appealed for calm and asked Lagosians to go about their daily activities without fear. He said more officers have been deployed to hotspots and entry points across the state, working with other security agencies to maintain order. Residents with suspicious tips are advised to contact the nearest police station rather than rely on social media.
“We remain committed to protecting lives and property,” Fatai said. “Lagos is safe, and adequate security measures are in place.”