A 16-year-old boy named Mustapha was killed by a stray bullet during a suspected cult conflict in the Oyingbo neighbourhood of Ebute Metta, Lagos State, on Monday.  

Shortly after a peace walk led by local kids to foster unity and confront the rise in cult-related violence in the community, the violence broke out.  Reports state that a dispute arose among participants shortly after the march was over.  

According to an eyewitness, the altercation swiftly got out of hand when someone who was thought to be a cultist pulled out a gun and started shooting randomly.  A stray gunshot hit Mustapha in the confusion.

The teenager was regarded by locals as a well-behaved, tranquil young person who had no known affiliations with any cult.

“Mustapha just came out to support the walk. He was not part of any gang. He is a calm and respectful boy. He was taken to the hospital after the bullet hit him but he died on the way,” a source said.

The event came to an abrupt end due to the fear and confusion caused by the shooting, and it was learnt that one of the walk organisers was shot and is currently in critical condition. 

Attempts to contact the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer for a statement were unsuccessful because his phone was unanswered.

Source