Two injured as Okada riders, Police clash in Lagos

…As Police cite reasons for reprisal attack

By Adeyanju Esther, Lagos

Okada riders armed with weapons invaded Ipaja Police Station in Lagos State on Monday morning, leading to a gun battle between them and the policemen on duty.

According to Police reports, the clash left two of the attackers injured.

The incident caused panic among residents and prompted the reinforcement of police personnel.

Spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the incident, stating that the situation had been brought under control.

Hundeyin reported that the attack occurred after police officers began enforcing the existing ban on motorcycles in Lagos State.

“The attackers, who came in their hundreds, stormed the station with dangerous weapons, shooting at the officers and attempting to overrun the station,” Hundeyin said.

“Despite the intensity of the attack, officers managed to hold their ground until reinforcements from the Area Command and the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) arrived.

“During the clash, two of the attackers were fatally injured. Over two hundred motorcycles were impounded, several attackers were arrested, and one locally made firearm was retrieved.

“The Lagos State Police Command will not be cowed into abdicating its responsibilities of enforcement of all duly passed laws and maintenance of law and order within the society,” Hundeyin stated.