MAN RETURNING FOR WEDDING DIES AFTER MOB ATTACK IN LAGOS

A man identified as Basit, who had reportedly returned to Nigeria from abroad ahead of his wedding, has died after being attacked by a mob following an alleged hit-and-run incident on Lagos Island. The incident occurred on Wednesday night in the Patey area of the community, where Basit was accused of hitting a male resident with his vehicle before allegedly driving away from the scene instead of stopping to assist the victim.

According to residents familiar with the incident, the alleged collision happened as Basit was driving around the Patey area after coming from the direction of Freeman Street. Witnesses said a man attempting to cross the road was reportedly struck by the vehicle, after which Basit allegedly continued driving. His action reportedly angered residents, who pursued the vehicle and eventually caught up with him before a mob descended on him.

A resident identified as Afolabi Lawal said the mob attacked Basit with sticks and bottles, particularly targeting his head. The assault reportedly left him unconscious after he sustained serious head injuries. According to the account, the attackers fled after realising that Basit was no longer responding, while the extent of his injuries proved fatal. His death has since raised concerns over the growing incidents of mob attacks and the dangers of taking the law into one’s hands.

The tragedy was made more painful by the timing of Basit’s death, as his wedding was reportedly scheduled to take place in about two weeks. He had only recently returned to Nigeria from abroad in preparation for the ceremony and was said to have been looking forward to the event before the incident abruptly ended his life. His remains have since been deposited in a morgue, according to a police source. 

Meanwhile, the police have begun taking action over the incident, with some suspects reportedly arrested in connection with Basit’s death. The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, had not responded to calls or a text message seeking confirmation as of the time of the report. The circumstances surrounding the alleged hit-and-run and the subsequent mob attack are expected to form part of the investigation as authorities work to identify those responsible and determine the events that led to the death.