A community in the grips of violence

The residents of Otodo Gbame, popularly called ‘Ikate Waterside,’ in Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State have cried out over incessant attacks by a group which have led to loss of lives and destruction of property in the community. The people, who spoke with NT Metro, called on the state government, the police and other security agencies to save their lives.
The youth Leader, Celestine Zannu, said a group of hoodlums numbering about 30 invaded the community, destroyed property and set fire to houses. He said: “One man called Wasiu is the ring leader.
He is from Elegusi. He has been coming here to sell land at night; now he has taken another step by inviting thugs to destroy our community, thereby leaving several families homeless.” Zaanu claimed that the fire set to house in the community led to the death of twins and a Hausa man. He added that several others had been attacked while they were in their houses, leaving them with severe injuries.

Also, the youth Secretary, Emmanuel Anasu, wondered why the people had been subjected to such treatment. He said the area had been occupied by people from different tribes for over 20 years.
According to him, a man called Bello bought several plots of land making up the community from Elegusi community. Anasu added that because of development, people from different tribes such as Egun, Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, Ijaw, had occupied the area.
NT Metro reported on September 15 how a 27-year-old mother of three, Mrs Cesi, was raped during one of the violent attacks on the community. As a result of the rape, the victim’s husband said the woman had ceased to be his wife, in line with his tribe’s tradition. Also, the Baale of the community, Mr Dasu Mfe, said that he had to invite the police because of the level of the destruction wrought on his subjects.
A police source at Jakande Police Station said the police were investigating the matter. He said the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ngozi Braide, would give further details of the matter. But when contacted, Baide refused to speak on the matter and did not reply SMS sent her. Efforts to reach the Anofiu of Elegusi, Oba Elegusi, were frustrated by several youths who did not allow access to him. The Information Officer, Eti-Osa Local Government, who gave his name as Mr Babatunde, confirmed that there was violence in the area. Babatunde, however, refused to details.
He said: “The chairman has travelled out of the country. He is in the best position to speak on Ikate Waterside. But we have seen and confirmed the violence in the community.”
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