Fake Bandit Rumour Turns Deadly As Innocent Lagos Rider Is Lynched By Mob

The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed viral reports claiming that armed bandits have invaded parts of Lagos State, describing the allegations as false and warning that the spread of unverified information has already led to a tragic loss of life.

In a statement issued on June 1, the Command debunked social media claims that communities including Ibeju Lekki, Imota and Oke Afo were under attack, stressing that there is no ongoing security invasion or coordinated assault anywhere in the state.

According to the police, schools, businesses and residential communities across Lagos remain safe and are being monitored through ongoing security operations and surveillance.

However, the Command revealed that the false reports triggered panic in some communities and contributed to the killing of a 24 year old commercial motorcyclist, Kulaha Ayuba, who was wrongly accused of being a bandit.

Police said the young man was attacked by a mob after misinformation spread within the area. His motorcycle was reportedly seized, while his body was later discovered in a nearby swamp.

The Command described the incident as a painful example of the dangers of fake news, mob justice and the circulation of unverified security information.

Following investigations, fifteen suspects have been arrested in connection with the killing and are currently assisting authorities with ongoing inquiries.

The police also condemned ethnic profiling and vigilante style attacks, warning residents against taking the law into their own hands based on rumours circulating on social media.

Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, urged Lagos residents to remain calm and continue their daily activities without fear, assuring the public that adequate security measures remain in place across the state.

He further advised citizens to rely only on verified information from official security agencies and credible sources, emphasizing that misinformation can have devastating consequences.

The incident has sparked renewed concerns about the growing impact of fake news and online rumours, with many Nigerians calling for greater caution before sharing unverified security alerts that could endanger innocent lives.