by Nigerian News24 Correspondents
A Nigerian national, identified only as Babylon, was shot and killed during a birthday celebration in Laguna, Philippines. The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, NN24 has learned.
According to a source familiar with the matter, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the case, the party was hosted by a man named Obinna and took place at a private residence.
The gathering reportedly turned violent following a dispute between two rival groups present at the venue. Babylon’s group had been located downstairs, while the rival group stayed upstairs during the party. Trouble began when Babylon’s group went upstairs to inform the host they were leaving.
“They were blocked by members of the other group, and an argument broke out,” the source said. “Although Babylon’s group eventually returned downstairs, a member of the upstairs group followed them and reignited the confrontation, which quickly escalated into gunfire.”
A CCTV clip reviewed by NN24 showed the moment Babylon was shot as panic erupted among other attendees.
Another source revealed that Babylon attempted to flee the scene but collapsed in a nearby bush, where he succumbed to his injuries. “The shooter fled before police arrived. Babylon’s body was discovered later that morning,” the source added.
Babylon was said to reside in Manila and had travelled to Laguna for the event. Authorities suspect the shooting may be cult-related, though no arrests have been made so far. Concerns have also arisen regarding Babylon’s remains, as no one has come forward to claim the body. He is believed to have a wife and children in Nigeria, and efforts are ongoing to contact his family.
This incident follows a similar case reported by some Nigeria daily’s in 2023, where a Nigerian medical student named Ikem was allegedly murdered by a group of Chinese nationals in the Philippines. According to his associate, Michael Ojuola, the attackers bound and beat him to death. As of the time of reporting, Philippine authorities had not issued a public statement regarding either incident.