Dare Babalola
The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed reports circulating on social media claiming an imminent cult-related clash in parts of the state, describing the message as misleading and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents.
The rumour, which suggested possible retaliatory violence in areas such as Shitta, Akerele, Itire/Aguda, and the Ishaga axis, reportedly sparked concern among members of the public over fears of a breakdown of law and order.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the police clarified that there is no credible intelligence confirming any planned cult confrontation in the mentioned locations or any other part of Lagos State.
According to the Command, immediately the initial report surfaced, police authorities moved swiftly to deploy personnel and operational resources to the affected communities and surrounding areas to prevent any form of disturbance.
The statement added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, has ordered an усилement of security operations across identified flashpoints in the state, including intensified patrols, strategic deployment of officers, and increased visibility of security operatives to deter criminal activity and reassure residents.
The Command further noted that security presence has been strengthened across the listed areas, stressing that the situation remains calm and under control. It emphasised that both police operatives and other security agencies are fully on ground to ensure that peace is maintained.
Reassuring residents, the police urged members of the public to disregard the viral message and continue their daily activities without fear, noting that there is no cause for alarm.
The Command also cautioned against the spread of unverified information capable of triggering fear or panic, advising residents to always rely on official communication channels for accurate updates.
While calling for calm, the police encouraged citizens to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movement or unusual gathering to the nearest police station or through its emergency hotlines: 07061019374, 08065154338, 08063299264, 08039344870, and 09168630929.
SP Adebisi reiterated that the Lagos State Police Command remains fully committed to safeguarding lives and property, assuring that all necessary measures are being taken to sustain peace and security across the state.
