Delta Teenager Fatally Shot in Lagos During Friend Visit
A tragic incident unfolded in Lagos State on Sunday, March 15, 2026, when a teenager from Asaba, Delta State, was shot dead while visiting a friend in the Ikotun area. The victim, identified as Chike, also known as "Ejanla," had traveled from his home in Delta State to see a friend in Lagos, only to meet a violent end.
Eyewitness Account of the Fatal Confrontation
According to eyewitness reports, the attack occurred when Chike and his friend went to withdraw money from a Point-of-Sale (PoS) terminal. A group of youths approached them, leading to a brief conversation before one of the attackers opened fire at close range. An eyewitness named Abiodun, as disclosed by The Punch, described the scene: "He was returning from a PoS shop when a group of boys approached them. They spoke briefly, and suddenly one of them opened fire on him."
The attackers fled immediately, leaving Chike lying in a pool of blood. His friend, who was unharmed, witnessed the shooting, which caused panic in the neighborhood. A photo obtained by reporters showed the teenager lifeless at the scene, highlighting the brutality of the attack.
Anti-Cult Group Links Killing to Gang Activity
An anti-cult group has suggested that the killing was cult-related, providing additional details about the incident. According to their sources, Chike attempted to give his gold and cash to the attackers in a bid to save his life, but they shot him anyway. The attackers reportedly shouted "Haba-Krier" before and after the shooting, a phrase that may indicate gang affiliation or a specific motive.
This revelation points to a possible connection with organized gang violence in the area, raising concerns about security and cult-related activities in Lagos. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in curbing such violent crimes.
Context of Recent Violent Incidents
This shooting is part of a disturbing trend of violent crimes in Nigeria. In a separate incident, a 16-year-old, Emmanuel Danladi, allegedly shot and killed his 15-year-old friend, Titus Joseph, while playing at Emmanuel's home in Kwamba, Suleja LGA, Niger State. The weapon used was a Dane gun belonging to Emmanuel's father, a local vigilante member. Both father and son were arrested on charges of negligence and unlawful killing, with the gun recovered as evidence.
Additionally, a 29-year-old teacher in Katsina, Laminu Saminu, allegedly poisoned his friend, Sanusi Bawa, at an unfinished building, leading to the victim's death under suspicious circumstances. Authorities confirmed Saminu's arrest after he reportedly lured the victim with a poisoned drink, assaulted him, and concealed the body in a well.
In another related case, a 23-year-old man, Iliayasu Mohammed, allegedly killed his close friend, Safillahi Muhammad, in Dantata Village, Abuja, after serving him a meal. The FCT Police responded to a distress call, finding Muhammad unconscious in a pool of blood; he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival at a hospital.
These incidents highlight a pattern of violence involving acquaintances and friends, with the Lagos shooting standing out due to its suspected cult connections. Investigations into Chike's death are ongoing, as authorities work to apprehend the perpetrators and address the underlying issues of gang violence in the region.
