Criminal Activities Heighten Fear in Lagos Community as Residents Raise Alarm
The tranquil ambiance of Tokunbo Kelani Street in Igando, Lagos, belies the palpable fear gripping its residents, who point to an eerie abandoned building as the epicenter of their anxiety.
Nestled close to the Alimosho General Hospital, the community exudes a semblance of serenity during the day, yet under the cover of night, a surge of trepidation emerges from a dilapidated structure, believed to harbor kidnappers and assorted criminals.
From the Isheri-Igando Expressway, an access road leads to Tokunbo Kelani Street, intersecting Akeem Oke Street. This junction, marred by an abandoned building for over two decades, has become a source of distress for residents.
During a recent visit by The PUNCH, landlords in the area recounted hearing unsettling noises emanating from the forsaken edifice at night, including desperate cries for mercy.
Despite repeated attempts by Lagos State agencies to enforce demolition orders due to its obstruction of the link road between Akeem Oke and Tokunbo Kelani streets, the building remains standing, serving as a breeding ground for criminal activities.
Surrounded by an uncompleted structure and a tent allegedly masquerading as a church, the abandoned building has become a locus of suspicion and fear. Residents cast doubt on the legitimacy of the adjacent church, alleging its proprietor, known as 'Prophet Elijah,' engages in occult practices.
According to eyewitnesses, the purported church, devoid of congregants, emits pungent odors at night, accompanied by mysterious rituals and threats from its proprietor. Residents allege that Prophet Elijah exploits vulnerable individuals, housing them in the abandoned building and subjecting them to abuse.
Amidst these allegations, The PUNCH encountered a young pregnant woman, allegedly under the care of Prophet Elijah, exhibiting signs of disorientation within the compound.
Alarmed by the escalating menace, community leaders have petitioned Lagos State authorities, urging prompt intervention to dismantle the structures harboring criminal elements.
Following community outcry, Lagos State officials have visited the site, serving contravention notices and marking the structures for demolition. Prophet Elijah, summoned by the police for interrogation, has commenced demolishing his tent.
Yet, challenges persist as unknown individuals tamper with official notices, obstructing efforts to eradicate the hub of criminality.
As the community grapples with these uncertainties, residents remain vigilant, hopeful that decisive action from authorities will restore peace to Tokunbo Kelani Street.
