Yoruba clashes with Hausas -3 killed, one Custom officer injured

There was a gun battle yesterday between hoodlums from White Sand community and some Nigerian Customs Service Officers attached to the Federal Operations Zone A, Ikeja, at White Sand community in Lagos State. Three persons were shot dead, a Custom officer and others sustained gunshot injuries during the fierce battle. 

According to reporters, trouble started on Monday, following a clash between Hausa and Yoruba residents over accusation by the Yoruba that the Hausas has been terrorising the area. 

Tajudeen Shamsudeen who is a resident of the area, explained that a boy, identified as Ojo, said to be on his way home, was allegedly stabbed to death by some Hausa boys. He said;

"For long these Hausa boys have been attacking people here. They waylay people, dispose them of cash and belongings. Even rulers of both ethnic groups are aware of the issue"

The attack on Ojo however sparked a riot during which dangerous weapons were freely used by both parties. As the Lagos State Government had ordered, the demolition of shanties in the troubled community began yesterday morning. The Hausas alleged that the demolition was carried out in their place of abode only. While the demolition was going on, some custom officers, who residents in the area alleged to have been invited by Seriki Hausa, stormed the community in three patrol vehicles at about 2:30pm. They were alleged to have fired sporadically to scare off some hoodlums who were roaming the area. 

The hoodlums were said to have resisted the Customs men who allegedly attempted to stop the demolition, an action that led to a shootout, during which three persons were hit and one killed with the bullets. The bullets also injured a Custom officer while others fled the scene. 

Confirming the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmus, said only one person died while two others are recuperating in the hospital. 

Source: gistmania

Confirming the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmus, said only one person died, while two others are recuperating in the hospital.