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Traders, residents run for cover as Area Boys goes on rampage- See details


Like most elections in Nigeria, the poll marred by pockets of violence in some areas some of which took place in Lagos. But what is most unusual is the fact that after the votes were concluded, the violence seems not to end, particularly in parts of Lagos where it was observed that hoodlums, went on a rampage.

Reports in Lagos suggest that areas boys took over the streets of Oshodi on Monday after traders, suspected to be of Igbo extractions were prevented from opening their shops after they were accused of not voting for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The hoodlums, who are alleged to be members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), whose national treasurer is the notorious MC Oluomo, the alleged riches area boy in Nigeria.

Though it cannot be proven that MC Oluomo was directly involved in the incident, it is generally believed that since he controls most of the area boys in that part of the state, he must have had a hand in the fracas be it directly or indirectly.

Speaking to reporters, the Lagos State Police command has stated that the situation is under control, while security has been beefed up in the state in general.

“The command wishes to debunk the rumour in its entirety, as nothing could be farther from the truth.

“Although the command received distress calls from concerned Nigerians, whose apprehensions were understandably heightened by disturbing rumours emanating from some social media platforms, the command swiftly and massively deployed its personnel drawn from various units in Oshodi and its environs to assuage the feelings of residents and further assure Lagosians of its readiness to decisively deal with any person who attempts to breach the public peace,” the statement signed by the spokesman Chike Chima, a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP), said.

“In order to sustain the peaceful atmosphere, the command will maintain a high level of police presence in all parts of the state, with emphasis on crime-prone areas.

“The command warns criminally-minded people and disgruntled elements to steer clear of the state or be prepared to contend with security forces,” the statement concluded.

Some eyewitness recalled the events of the day, which many stressed that it was life threatening in many cases.

“We don’t have peace of mind at the moment because these hoodlums can show up anytime. This is why we are not displaying our goods. We cannot open our shops because we are afraid that the hoodlums may attack us and loot our goods,” an eyewitness said.

“It happened in the morning. The majority of the traders were not around. Area boys stormed Oshodi and attacked shop owners, destroying goods,” a resident of the area said.

Observers have stated that if the situation is not nipped in the bud, it could escalate to the governorship elections scheduled to hold in the coming days, they stated that voters intimidation could lead to apathy which is not healthy for the nation’s democracy and democratic values.

The state government have been called upon to wade into the situation and reassure the citizens regarding their safety as they go to cast their votes in subsequent elections.

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