Tragedy struck the Cele Nica community in Ojo Local Government Area of Lagos State as two teenagers were shot dead during a violent armed robbery at a local barbershop on Saturday night. The victims, identified simply as Chijindu and Akorede, were killed when a gang of robbers opened fire on customers after dispossessing them of cash and mobile phones.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred around 9 p.m. at a barbershop located on Abengo Close, a usually quiet street within the neighbourhood. Residents said a three-man gang arrived on motorcycles and entered the shop pretending to be customers. Moments later, they brought out guns and ordered everyone to lie face down, demanding their valuables.
A resident, Duuni Olafeso, who lives nearby, recalled hearing several gunshots shortly after the robbers stormed the area.
“We heard people shouting and then gunfire. When we rushed out, we found the barber and two young customers lying on the floor, covered in blood,” he said.
The robbers reportedly collected money and phones from those present. However, the situation escalated when one of the victims, Chijindu, told them he had only ₦1,000 for his haircut. Enraged by the response, one of the armed men allegedly ordered his accomplices to “waste them,” and they began shooting.
The bullets struck the barber, Chijindu, and Akorede, leaving all three severely injured. While Akorede reportedly died on the spot, the barber survived by pretending to be dead until the assailants fled the scene. Chijindu was rushed to a nearby hospital but later succumbed to his injuries around midnight.
Chijindu’s employer, Ugochukwu, who installs solar panels, described the deceased as a hardworking and responsible apprentice.
“We came back from a job earlier that day, and he went out to get a haircut. Later, I was told he had been shot. I rushed him to the hospital, but he didn’t make it,” he said with deep sorrow.
The killings have left residents of Cele Nica community in shock and fear. The atmosphere along Owolabi Street and surrounding areas has remained tense, with many business owners closing early out of concern for their safety. The barbershop where the incident occurred remains locked, serving as a grim reminder of the attack.
Relatives of Akorede, who reportedly lived outside the community, were notified by police after his body was recovered. Chijindu was laid to rest on Monday, surrounded by grieving family members and friends.
Confirming the incident, sources within the Lagos State Police Command said investigations have commenced to track down the armed robbers responsible for the killings. Officers from the Ojo Division have reportedly visited the scene and are reviewing available leads, including witness statements and nearby security footage.
A senior police officer who spoke on condition of anonymity said the command is determined to bring the perpetrators to justice.
“This is a tragic and senseless killing. The command is pursuing every lead to apprehend those behind it,” he stated.
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