The 81 Division of the Nigerian Army has debunked reports circulating on social media alleging that gunmen shot and killed a civilian, identified as Rilwan Adekunle, inside a market within the Ojo Military Cantonment, Lagos.
In a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, the Division clarified that the incident did not occur within the cantonment premises as claimed online.
According to Yahaya, the Army received a distress call on October 18, 2025, regarding a shooting at a junction near the Mammy Market abattoir gate, close to the cantonment. Preliminary investigations revealed that the attack was linked to suspected cult-related activities, which tragically resulted in the death of one person.
“The standby team responded swiftly, and the victim was immediately taken to the Ojo Cantonment Medical Centre, being the nearest medical facility. Unfortunately, he was confirmed dead by medical personnel,” the statement read.
The Nigerian Army expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and extended its condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased.
The statement also urged members of the public and media practitioners to verify information from credible sources before sharing, to curb the spread of misinformation and avoid unnecessary panic.