Pandemonium in Lagos as hoodlums clash

There was confusion at the Oshodi area of Lagos State on Thursday when two factions of hoodlums engaged one another in a supremacy battle.

PUNCH Metro learnt that the hoodlums shot into the air during the clash, which reportedly began at about 4.30pm.

It was gathered that the gunshots, which lasted for several minutes, sent shop owners in the area and passersby scampering for safety.

Our correspondent learnt from eyewitnesses that the cause of the fight was the fees collected at the parks from commercial drivers.

It was said that arguments over the fees led to the clash among the hoodlums.

Policemen from Mosafejo Police Division were said to have arrived the area and shot teargas canisters into the air to disperse the rampaging hoodlums.

It was learnt that the action did little to stop the fight.

A pedestrian, Mr. Udom Bassey, said, "The hoodlums then started exchanging fire with the police.

"They refused to disperse. My eyes almost popped out as a result of the teargas. Most motorists and pedestrians deserted the area during the unrest as the gunshots continued."

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Kenneth Nwosu, confirmed the unrest, adding that the police had sent reinforcements to the area to ensure that normalcy was restored.

He said, "Yes, some street urchins went on rampage at the Oshodi under bridge. Our men have been mobilised, and as I speak to you, the operation is still ongoing.

"Initial report says normalcy has been restored and there is no cause for worry. When the operations are done with, I will be able to give the number of arrests made."