Tension erupted in the Igbogbele community of Badagry West LGA, Lagos, after a stray bullet allegedly fired by a Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) officer struck a middle-aged woman, Hunsu Elizabeth.

The incident, which occurred on Friday, quickly escalated when angry youths set ablaze an immigration checkpoint in protest, capturing widespread attention on social media. Videos circulating online showed thick smoke rising from the torched post while residents confronted at least seven immigration officers, demanding accountability.

In one video, a woman shouted, “You have shot the lady! Don’t go! They have shot her in the arm. You’re not supposed to shoot!” while community members rushed to assist the injured woman, who was carried on a motorcycle to receive medical treatment. Footage later showed her grimacing in pain on a hospital bed.

Reacting to the incident, Hon. Sesi Whingan, lawmaker representing Badagry Federal Constituency, condemned the shooting and appealed for calm. In a statement, he said:

“I received with deep concern the distressing incident… We are grateful that her life was spared, and I pray for her swift and complete recovery. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to her, her family, and everyone affected by the emotional shock this incident has caused.”

Whingan described the high concentration of checkpoints along the Badagry-Owode-Seme corridor and recurring harassment by security operatives as dangerous to civilians. He vowed to engage NIS and Nigeria Customs leadership to ensure accountability, professionalism, and reforms prioritising public safety.

“We shall continue to follow up to ensure that these agencies operate with discipline, professionalism, and respect for human lives… I also appeal to our people to remain calm and law-abiding,” he added.

As of the report, the Nigeria Immigration Service spokesperson, Akinsola Akinlabi, had yet to comment on the incident.

The incident underscores growing concerns over reckless conduct by security personnel and the urgent need for reforms to protect civilians in communities near checkpoints.