Nigeria: Panic in Eleko as residents demand security over alleged bandits’ infiltration
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Nigeria
Residents of Eleko, a coastal community in the Ibeju-Lekki area of Lagos State, are calling for urgent security reinforcement following reports of suspected bandits infiltrating the area.
Tension gripped the community on Monday, June 2, 2026, after a video allegedly showing a group of armed young Fulani men and women being apprehended by angry residents circulated widely on social media. The footage sparked fears among locals, many of whom took to community platforms to demand increased police presence and proactive security measures.
The incident has reignited concerns about safety in Ibeju-Lekki and surrounding areas, which have seen rapid development and population growth in recent years. Residents say they feel vulnerable, especially at night, and are urging authorities not to wait for a major attack before responding.
Police debunk claims, assure Lagosians
The Lagos State Police Command has moved to calm nerves, debunking claims that armed bandits have established a presence in Eleko. In a statement, the Command said it had not recorded any incident involving armed bandits in the area and assured residents of adequate security coverage.
Police urged residents to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and report any suspicious activity directly to the nearest police station or through official security channels.
Authorities also noted that patrols and surveillance in Ibeju-Lekki have been intensified in recent weeks, given the area’s strategic importance with major projects like the Dangote Refinery and Lekki Free Trade Zone nearby.
Despite the police assurance, many Eleko residents say they remain uneasy. Community leaders have appealed for more visible policing, improved street lighting, and better collaboration between security agencies and local vigilante groups.
The viral video and the panic it triggered highlight the growing anxiety among Lagos communities over security, especially in fast-developing fringe areas. Residents say they want visible action, not just reassurances, to restore confidence.
