By Ghazali you
A 12-year-old boy identified simply as Wasiu has been killed by a stray bullet during a violent cult clash in the Olosha area of Mushin, Lagos State, throwing the entire community into mourning and renewed fear.
According to eyewitness accounts gathered by PUNCH Metro, the incident occurred around 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, when rival cult groups reportedly engaged in a fierce gun battle that lasted several hours, sending residents into panic and forcing businesses to shut down abruptly.
Wasiu was said to have gone to buy food from a popular local vendor known as Iya Ibeji when the clash erupted. While attempting to flee alongside other terrified residents, he was struck by a bullet, reportedly fired during the confrontation.
“We started hearing gunshots around 8 p.m., and people started running into their homes while business owners closed their shops. Wasiu was waiting to buy food when he got caught up in the crossfire. He tried to run, but a bullet hit him,” a resident, Tale Amoo, recounted.
Another eyewitness, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said Wasiu’s body was discovered motionless after the violence had subsided. Efforts to save his life were thwarted by the chaotic situation, especially as residents encountered hurdles trying to access emergency medical services.
“They tried rushing him to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), but the main gate was shut. They attempted to go through another route, but cultists were still active in that area,” the source explained. “By the time help could get to him, it was too late.”
Several residents also expressed fear over the deteriorating security situation in Mushin, noting that cult-related violence had escalated in recent days with little visible response from authorities.
“Gunshots have become normal here. For the past few nights, especially around the LUTH axis, it’s been nonstop gunfire. We’re all afraid, and now, a child is dead,” a local resident said.
Reacting to the tragic development, the Vice Chairman of Mushin Local Government, Tubosun Aruwe, condemned the attack in a statement on Thursday, describing it as senseless and heartbreaking.
“I am deeply saddened and utterly appalled by the senseless and violent attack that occurred last night in the Olosha area. The loss of the innocent life of a 12-year-old child is a tragedy that strikes at the very heart of our humanity,” Aruwe stated.
He expressed condolences to the bereaved family and other victims of similar past attacks, promising to support their pursuit of justice and urging security agencies to act swiftly.
“My heart goes out to the families of all the victims. I stand with you as we seek justice for these senseless killings,” he added.
Attempts to reach the Lagos State Police Command for comment were unsuccessful. As of Thursday evening, police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin had not responded to multiple calls and messages regarding the incident.
