A 42-year-old man, Onyekachi Iwehaa, was brutally killed yesterday in an ambush by suspected members of a popular Islamic group. The attack occurred at a construction site in Ikorodu, Lagos, where the victim had reportedly gone to pay workers.
Investigations suggest that the killing may be linked to lingering religious tensions in the area, which began after Onyekachi’s brother, Christopher Iwehaa, donated a parcel of land to the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) for a worship centre.
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A family source, who pleaded anonymity, disclosed that trouble started in 2018 when Christopher made the donation. The Islamic group, which was developing adjoining plots for an Islamic school, allegedly issued repeated death threats to Christopher. These threats reportedly escalated into physical attacks, forcing the family to abandon the church project the same year.
The grieving source lamented the “senseless killing” and expressed shock that the attack could occur in broad daylight without intervention. According to him, the deceased had recently sought permission from his brother to utilise the land, which was under threat of encroachment by ‘Omoniles.’
A local resident familiar with the longstanding dispute criticised the response of law enforcement agencies, accusing the police of inaction despite years of tension. “This issue has been brewing for years, and the authorities have done little or nothing to defuse it,” the resident said, alleging possible bias on the part of law enforcement.
The killing has sparked outrage and renewed calls for stronger legal safeguards and impartial policing in Nigeria. Religious and community leaders are urging dialogue to prevent further bloodshed and ensure lasting peace in the region.
When contacted, the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, stated that he had not yet been briefed on the matter but promised to provide an update. As at press time, the command had yet to issue an official statement.