The Lagos State Police Command has restored calm and normalcy in Owode Onirin and Balogun Market after two separate violent incidents that shook parts of the state on Tuesday, August 27, 2025. The Command confirmed that three people were killed, while a police inspector is currently battling for his life in the hospital.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, personally led a combined team of police operatives to Owode Onirin following reports of a violent clash between traders and suspected land grabbers. The incident caused widespread panic as major roads and highways in and out of the busy market were blocked. According to a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the swift intervention of security operatives brought the situation under control, with roads reopened for traffic and residents able to go about their daily activities.
Police investigations revealed that the crisis erupted during a confrontation between traders and land grabbers in the area. Tragically, three persons sustained fatal injuries and were confirmed dead after being rushed to the hospital. A police inspector deployed to the scene was also seriously wounded during the violence. He remains in a critical condition on the danger list at the hospital. In response, CP Jimoh ordered a sustained police presence at Owode Onirin to prevent any resurgence of violence and to reassure traders and residents of their safety.
In a major development, the Lagos State Police Command declared Abiodun Ariori, the Chief Executive Officer of Prosperous Ariori Golden Venture Limited, wanted in connection with the deadly clash. The police revealed that preliminary evidence linked Ariori to the incident. However, attempts to arrest him have so far failed, as he has reportedly gone into hiding. Ariori, described as dark in complexion and with a last known address in Egbeda, Lagos, is now on the police wanted list. The Command urged members of the public with useful information on his whereabouts to immediately report to the nearest police station or contact the Lagos State Police hotlines: 08063299264, 09053872208, 08127155150, or via email at [email protected]. The suspect is strongly advised to turn himself in at the nearest police station.
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The police also disclosed that four officers allegedly brought in from outside Lagos by the wanted suspect have been identified and detained. They are currently facing orderly room trial for embarking on illegal duty alongside Ariori. The Lagos Police Command assured the public that the outcome of the trial will be made public as part of efforts to promote transparency and accountability.
In a separate incident, panic spread in Balogun Market on Lagos Island following reports of violence involving hoodlums. Social media rumours suggested that the fight was an ethnic clash between traders of different backgrounds. However, the police swiftly debunked the claim, clarifying that the fight was purely between hoodlums and miscreants in the area. According to police investigations, one Ebuka Adindu, from Abia State, fatally stabbed Sodiq Ibrahim, from Kogi State, during the altercation. In a bizarre twist, Ebuka also stabbed himself in the shoulder and became unconscious. He was rushed to the hospital where he is currently under police custody. The suspect will be charged to court upon recovery. The police further confirmed that no innocent lives were lost, and no goods or properties in the market were damaged during the incident. Business activities have since resumed in Balogun Market.
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The Lagos State Police Command emphasized that Lagos remains generally peaceful despite the two incidents. Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh called on residents to remain calm, law-abiding, and to cooperate with the police in sustaining peace across the state. Members of the public are advised not to spread fear or false information. Lagos is safe, and security agencies remain committed to protecting lives and property.
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