Residents of Meiran, Lagos State, were thrown into fear on Wednesday afternoon after a violent confrontation erupted involving suspected hoodlums, with reports of young men chasing each other wielding axes.
Eyewitnesses said the incident occurred around 1:00 p.m. near the Kabowei Bus Stop area of Meiran. While no deaths were reported, the clash caused widespread panic among locals and commuters.
Motorists reportedly abandoned their vehicles as the fight unfolded, while nearby residents sought refuge to stay safe. Groups of youths, some armed with axes, were seen running along the roads, bringing traffic to a standstill.
Segun, a local resident, told reporters that he had to leave his car and take cover in a nearby building. “The incident started near an amala joint at Meiran Bus Stop. I saw about five men with axes chasing others, so I abandoned my car and ran into a house,” he said. “Many motorists did the same until calm returned.”
Another resident, Moses, suggested the clash stemmed from a dispute between some youths and a local ice cream vendor. “Some boys took ice cream without paying. When the seller asked for his money, they threatened him,” Moses explained. “He called friends to intervene, and some of the boys reportedly brought out axes, escalating the situation.”
As of the report, it was unclear if anyone was injured. Efforts to reach Lagos State Police Command spokesperson Abimbola Adebisi for comment were unsuccessful.
The incident has raised concerns among residents, particularly amid growing reports of violent clashes involving youths and weapons across Lagos.