Residents of Shasha, Lagos, have been gripped by fear after a street altercation led to a Nigerian Air Force officer being stabbed, prompting reprisals and confusion over his condition.
According to a report from PUNCH, residents of Oremeji in the Shasha area of Alimosho, Lagos State, have been thrown into panic following the stabbing of a Nigerian Air Force officer during a confrontation with local youths.
The incident, which occurred on November 9, began after a football struck the officer—who was not in uniform—leading to a dispute that escalated rapidly.
A resident identified as Baba said the officer tried to seize the ball and beat the boy who kicked it, adding, “He brought out a knife… He stabbed the ball and threatened that if anyone touched him, he would stab them.” A fight ensued, during which one of the boys allegedly grabbed the knife and stabbed the officer.
The situation worsened when Air Force personnel reportedly stormed the area in search of those involved, sparking fear among residents and forcing businesses to close early. Another resident claimed tear gas was fired during a reprisal.
However, spokesperson for the Lagos Police Command, Abimbola Adebisi, debunked rumours of the officer’s death, stating he “was only injured” and had received treatment.
Adebisi also dismissed claims of continued harassment by Air Force personnel, saying the matter had been resolved through intervention by the DPO and community leaders.
Attempts to reach the Nigerian Air Force spokesperson for comments were unsuccessful as of press time.