Paragraph 1: The Tejuosho Market Disturbance and Police Response
On September 18, 2025, a violent disturbance erupted at Tejuosho Market in Lagos, Nigeria. A mob, described by police as “hoodlums and miscreants,” unleashed chaos, attacking individuals, vandalizing property, and attempting to invade a commercial bank within the market. Swiftly responding to a distress call, the Lagos State Police Command deployed various units, including Anti-riot Squads and tactical teams, to quell the unrest. The police successfully dispersed the mob, secured the bank, and restored order to the market.
Paragraph 2: The Bank Invasion Attempt and Police Intervention
The mob’s primary target was a commercial bank situated within the market. Mobile Police personnel stationed at the bank bravely repelled the initial assault, preventing the rioters from breaching the bank’s security. This prompt action thwarted what could have been a significant security breach and potential financial loss. The subsequent arrival of reinforcement police units further strengthened the defense against the aggressors, ensuring the safety of bank staff, customers, and the surrounding market area.
Paragraph 3: Arrests and Ongoing Investigation
In the aftermath of the disturbance, the Lagos State Police Command apprehended 18 individuals suspected of involvement in the violence. These suspects are currently in police custody, facing investigation. Authorities are determined to identify and apprehend all individuals responsible for the attack, aiming to hold them accountable for their actions and send a clear message that such lawlessness will not be tolerated. The investigation will likely focus on determining the motives behind the attack, identifying any ringleaders or organizers, and uncovering any potential connections to wider criminal networks.
Paragraph 4: Reassurance to the Public and Police Stance on Violence
Following the incident, the Lagos State Police Command issued a statement to reassure the public that normalcy had been restored to Tejuosho Market. Residents were encouraged to resume their daily activities without fear, confident in the police’s ability to maintain security and order. The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, firmly reiterated the command’s zero-tolerance policy towards violence, particularly attacks on police personnel and destruction of property. This strong stance underscores the commitment of law enforcement to protecting the safety and security of the community.
Paragraph 5: Recent Police Operations and Crackdown on Cultism
The Tejuosho Market incident comes on the heels of other police operations in Lagos State aimed at combating crime and maintaining public order. On September 12, 2025, just a week prior to the market disturbance, two suspected cultists were arrested in the Akoka area, and a firearm was recovered. The police also addressed rumors regarding cult clashes in the Lakowe area of Ibeju-Lekki, refuting claims that three fatalities had occurred. These actions reflect the ongoing efforts of the Lagos State Police Command to proactively address criminal activity and prevent further escalation of violence.
Paragraph 6: Context of Cult Clashes and Security Concerns
The recent incidents in Lagos, including the Tejuosho Market disturbance and the arrests related to cult activity, highlight broader security concerns within the state. Cult clashes have been a recurring issue, resulting in several deaths in different areas. The police crackdown on cultism, while necessary, also underscores the persistent challenges posed by these groups. The attack on the commercial bank during the market disturbance may or may not be directly linked to cult activities, but it underscores the need for continued vigilance and effective policing to address the multifaceted security challenges facing Lagos State. The investigation into the Tejuosho incident will likely explore any potential connections to existing criminal networks, including cult groups, to fully understand the motivations and context of the attack.
