Panic as Five Bodies Found Along Lagos Riverbank

Fear has gripped communities in Ikorodu, Lagos State, after the discovery of five bodies along the Oreta riverbank in Igbogbo on Wednesday, just a day after a man was gruesomely killed in Bayeku.

The incidents, which residents described as disturbing, are suspected to be connected to the recent surge in cult-related violence across parts of the state. Police sources suggested that ongoing clashes among rival groups may have triggered the killings, prompting a reshuffle of some divisional heads within the command.

While details remain unclear, residents of Bayeku confirmed that Tuesday’s victim was not a known cultist. His attackers reportedly severed his wrist and leg, raising speculation that the killing might be linked to land disputes rather than cult activity.

In Oreta, locals said five corpses were spotted along the riverbank. “Some people are saying it was the river that brought the five bodies, but we don’t believe that. The cause of death is still unknown,” a resident identified as Adeola said. A video circulating online also showed several lifeless bodies by the water’s edge, one dressed in a blue hoodie and another in a bloodstained black-and-white shirt.

Confirming the incident, the Executive Chairman of Igbogbo/Baiyeku LCDA, Hammed Aroyewun, visited the scene with security officials. In a statement, he condemned the attacks as “painful, unacceptable, and a direct affront to peace,” while assuring residents that security agencies were working to track down those responsible. He urged calm and pledged intensified patrols across Baiyeku and neighbouring areas.

The tragedy adds to a week of violence in Lagos, following a clash during a festival on Lagos Island in which three suspected cultists were killed amid heavy gunfire.

As of press time, efforts to reach Lagos State Police Command spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin for comment were unsuccessful.