Residents of Meiran were thrown into panic on Wednesday afternoon after suspected hoodlums reportedly chased one another with axes in parts of the area.
Nigerian News24 gathered from eyewitness accounts that the incident occurred at about 1pm around Kabowei Bus Stop, Meiran. Although no deaths were recorded, the disturbance created fear among residents and road users, forcing several motorists to abandon their vehicles and run to safety.
Eyewitnesses said the confrontation disrupted traffic as commuters and traders fled the scene, while groups of young men, some allegedly armed with axes, ran across the expressway.
A resident who identified himself as Segun told Nigerian News24 that he was compelled to leave his car and take cover in a nearby building when the violence broke out.
“The fight started close to an amala joint at Meiran Bus Stop. I saw about five men holding axes and chasing another group, so I quickly parked my car and ran for safety. Many other drivers did the same. I only returned after things had calmed down,” he said.
Another resident, Moses, claimed the incident stemmed from an argument between some youths and an ice cream vendor. According to him, the youths allegedly collected ice cream without paying and threatened the seller when he demanded payment.
“The seller later called some of his friends to challenge them. That was when the situation escalated. Some of the boys suddenly brought out axes, and everyone started running,” he explained.
Nigerian News24 could not independently confirm whether anyone sustained injuries during the fracas.
Efforts to reach the Lagos State Police Command spokesperson, Abimbola Adebisi, for comments were unsuccessful, as calls and messages sent as of Wednesday were yet to be returned.
Although it is unclear if the incident was cult-related, similar violent clashes involving youths wielding dangerous weapons have been reported in different parts of Lagos in recent times.