Tension as hoodlums clash in Lagos community

A communal clash created tension in the Abule-Ado area of Lagos on Sunday.

PUNCH Metro gathered that while properties were destroyed, no causality was recorded in the clash.

Our correspondent learnt that the arrival of men of the state police command at the scene saved the day for residents caught up in the clash.

The state command confirmed the clash in a statement posted on its Twitter handle, @LagosPoliceNG.

It disclosed that two persons were arrested over the unrest while normalcy had been restored to the area.

The police statement read, “The police have since restored normalcy in Abule-Ado. An intra-community fight broke out in the area earlier this (Sunday) morning, resulting in the destruction of property. Owing to the timely arrival of the police, no life was lost, and no property was razed, as widely claimed.

“Two persons have been arrested, and an investigation has commenced into the matter.

“Meanwhile, police officers remain on the ground to prevent further breakdown of law and order.

“Lagos State remains generally peaceful and secure and citizens are encouraged to continue to conduct their activities assured of the commitment of the Lagos State Police Command to guarantee their safety at all times.

Meanwhile, the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 2 Command, Onikan, Abiodun Alabi, has assured residents of Lagos and Ogun states of the safety of their lives and property.

The News Agency of Nigeria reported that the AIG gave the assurance in a statement signed by the Zonal Public Relations Officer, SP Hauwa Idris-Adamu, on Sunday in Lagos.

Alabi said the attention of the command had been drawn to the threats by some politicians and their supporters to cause the breakdown of law and order in the two states.

The statement read, “We find it imperative to clear the air and inform members of the public to disregard the publication and go about their lawful businesses without any fear of intimidation as the safety of their lives and property is assured.

“We enjoin residents of Lagos and Ogun states to rest assured of their safety at all times as the Nigeria Police Force is on top of the situation.”

Alabi warned politicians and their supporters to desist from fuelling any form of violence or acts that could cause a breach of public peace. According to him, anyone caught engaging in such acts will face the full wrath of the law.

(Punch)