Gunmen kill bride’s father, hypeman at Lagos wedding after-party
Gunmen Open Fire at Post-Wedding Celebration in Ikotun, Lagos; Two Dead
Residents of Ikotun, Lagos State, experienced a wave of panic on Saturday following a violent attack by gunmen suspected to be affiliated with cult groups. The assault resulted in the deaths of two individuals, including the father of a bride and a local hypeman identified only as Victor.
The incident occurred on Oviawe Street, near Governor’s Road, shortly after a wedding ceremony. Guests had gathered for an after-party when the assailants entered the venue and began firing indiscriminately, prompting attendees to flee in fear.
Eyewitnesses reported that Victor was entertaining guests when the gunmen stormed the celebration. According to one resident, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, the attackers targeted Victor specifically.
“They were holding an after-party when the gunmen entered and started shooting,” the resident said. “Everyone ran for their lives. They dragged Victor outside and assaulted him with weapons.”
Another witness stated that the bride’s father was shot while attempting to intervene on Victor’s behalf. “He rushed in to plead for Victor, and they both were shot and died on the spot,” the source noted.
The violence compelled local residents and business owners to quickly shut their doors and seek safety as chaos erupted in the area. While the attack occurred during a wedding celebration, sources within the community suggested it might be related to ongoing cult clashes rather than the event itself.
“This area has been experiencing cult-related violence for some time. It’s likely the attackers were targeting a rival group, but innocent people became victims,” another resident explained.
A neighbor known as Steve described Victor as a familiar presence in the community. “I was indoors when my wife alerted me to the incident. When I stepped outside, I learned Victor was involved. He is someone I often see around,” he said.
As of this report, the identities of the deceased and the attackers remain unverified.
In response to the shooting, a spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command confirmed that an investigation is underway. “The matter will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department at Panti for further action,” she stated.
