Bride’s Father, Hypeman Shot Dead At Lagos Wedding After-Party

 

Tragedy struck in the Ikotun area of Lagos on Saturday as gunmen suspected to be cultists shot dead a bride’s father and a Hype man during a wedding after-party.

The incident, which occurred on Oviawe Street off Governor’s Road, reportedly threw residents into panic as guests fled for safety when the attackers invaded the celebration.

It was gathered that the wedding ceremony had earlier been concluded at an event centre along Governor’s Road, with guests proceeding to a nearby location for an after-party when the assailants struck.

A resident, Tosin, who witnessed the incident, said the hypeman, identified simply as Victor, was entertaining guests when the attackers stormed the venue and opened fire.

“They came in suddenly and started shooting. People began to run in different directions to escape. They later singled out Victor, dragged him outside and assaulted him with weapons,” he said.

Another resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the bride’s father was shot while attempting to intervene.

“The man tried to rescue Victor and pleaded with the attackers, but they shot both of them. They died instantly,” the source said.

The attack reportedly caused widespread panic in the neighbourhood, forcing residents and shop owners to hurriedly shut their doors.

Sources within the community suggested that the incident might be linked to ongoing cult clashes in the area, rather than being directly targeted at the wedding party.

“There have been cult-related tensions here for some time. It is possible the attackers were after someone else, but innocent people became victims,” a resident said.

Another eyewitness, identified as Steve, described Victor as a familiar face in the area.

“I was indoors when I heard about the incident. When I stepped out, I was told Victor was involved. I later realised he was someone I used to see around the street,” he added.

As of the time of filing this report, the identities of the bride’s father and the attackers had yet to be confirmed.

The spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command confirmed the incident on Monday, stating that investigations were ongoing.

She added that the case would be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, for further handling.