Three killed over N200 dispute in Lagos

Three people have been killed and two others injured following a violent clash in the Ikola area of Lagos State after a disagreement over a N200 payment.

The incident occurred on Thursday when suspected area boys allegedly stopped a tricycle operator and demanded N200 from him. The rider reportedly refused to pay, prompting the group to seize his tricycle.

The rider later returned with some people, leading to a confrontation between the two sides that escalated into violence.

The Lagos State Police Command, in a statement by its spokesperson, Abimbola Adebisi, said three people were killed in the clash, while two others sustained injuries. Some buildings were also reportedly set ablaze during the violence.

The victims were taken to the Military Hospital, Yaba, for medical attention and other necessary procedures.

Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Tijani Fatai, visited the area alongside the Commander, 9 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brig. Gen. Afolabi Owolabi, to assess the situation and coordinate the security response.

The police subsequently deployed personnel from the Rapid Response Squad, Police Mobile Force, Tactical Squad, Eko Strike Force, Violent Crime Response Unit and the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps Task Force to restore order.

The command said the situation had been brought under control, while security personnel remained in the area to prevent further violence.

The police have commenced an investigation into the incident and vowed to prosecute anyone found responsible.

The command appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information capable of escalating tension. It also urged members of the public with useful information to assist investigators.