Tragedy Strikes During Peace Walk in Lagos: 16-Year-Old Mustapha UNALIVED by Stray Bullet

 

What was meant to be a peaceful walk to promote unity and discourage cult violence in the Oyingbo area of Ebute Metta, Lagos State, ended in heartbreak on Monday, April 21, as a 16-year-old boy named Mustapha was tragically killed by a stray bullet.

According to eyewitness reports, the peace walk had just concluded when an argument suddenly broke out among some of the youths who had participated in the event. What began as a minor disagreement quickly escalated into chaos when one of the individuals, suspected to be a cultist, pulled out a gun and began firing into the air.

In the midst of the confusion and panic, Mustapha — who had only come out to show his support for the peaceful initiative — was struck by a stray bullet. A source from the area, who spoke to Punch Newspaper on the condition of anonymity, described Mustapha as a calm, respectful boy who had no ties to any cult or gang. “He wasn’t involved in any violence,” the resident said. “He was just there to support a good cause.”

Sadly, despite efforts to rush him to the hospital, Mustapha succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead before arrival. One of the event organisers was also hit by a bullet and is currently battling for his life in critical condition.

The tragic incident has left the Oyingbo community in shock, turning what was supposed to be a moment of hope and unity into a painful reminder of the dangers of unchecked violence. The peace walk, which aimed to send a strong message against cultism, ended abruptly, leaving many residents grieving and questioning how such violence could erupt during an event meant to prevent it.

Authorities are yet to release an official statement, and investigations into the incident are expected to follow.