The Lagos State Police Command has dispelled public concerns following the circulation of a viral video showing a large group of northern youths gathered in the Lekki area of Lagos, clarifying that the individuals were lawfully recruited labourers for the Dangote Refinery project.

In a statement released by the Command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, on May 14, 2025, the police confirmed that 89 men had arrived from Katsina State for temporary employment. The clarification followed public anxiety and speculation about the group’s presence, which some feared could pose a security threat.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the young men in question, 89 in number, had arrived from Katsina State and were recruited to work as labourers at the Dangote Refinery in Lekki,” the statement said.

According to the Command, officers were swiftly deployed to the scene to verify the situation. A contractor affiliated with the refinery reportedly appeared before the police and confirmed that he personally sourced the labourers from Katsina for legitimate work. His account was supported by the Chief Security Officer of the Dangote Refinery, who verified that the individuals had undergone the necessary security screenings and were cleared for entry.

“The individuals were thoroughly searched, and no incriminating items were found in their possession. Furthermore, each person properly identified themselves and presented their National Identification Numbers, which were duly verified,” Hundeyin stated.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, urged Lagos residents to remain calm and to avoid spreading unverified or alarmist information capable of inciting panic or tension. He reiterated the Command’s commitment to maintaining public safety across the state.

However, speaking anonymously, one of the young men contradicted the police report that they were all from Katsina State. “I am not from Katsina. Some of us are from different states, though we set out from Katsina. We are here for just two weeks’ work. They told us it is temporary and that only indigenes get permanent jobs,” he said.

An informed source also confirmed that the group was brought in for seasonal, short-term labour. “They are here for a temporary job that will only last two weeks,” the source disclosed.