LAGOS – The Lagos State Police Command has responded to a viral video showing a large group of northern youths gathered in the Lekki area of Lagos, clarifying that the individuals are legitimate workers and not a security threat as widely speculated online.
According to the Command, the young men captured in the trending footage are employees of the Dangote Refinery, located in Lekki, and were on an official assignment in the area.
A statement issued by the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, read in part:
“The attention of the Lagos State Police Command has been drawn to a video circulating on social media showing a large number of young men who had reportedly just arrived in Lagos, seen gathered in front of the Dano Company premises in the Ibeju-Lekki area of the state.”
The clarification comes amid growing concern among residents over the security implications of the viral video. The police urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation and assured that there is no cause for alarm.
“Upon receipt of the information on May 14, 2025, officers from the command immediately deployed to the location to ascertain the facts. 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.
“A contractor working with the refinery appeared before the police and confirmed that he had personally sourced and brought the labourers from Katsina for legitimate employment purposes.
His statement was corroborated by the chief security officer of the refinery, who also affirmed that the labourers were verified and cleared for entry into the facility and would be residing in the facility.
“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.
“The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Police Command, Olohundare Jimoh, urges members of the public to remain calm and desist from spreading unverified or alarmist content that could create unnecessary tension or panic.
He reiterates that the command remains committed to maintaining law and order across Lagos State and will continue to respond promptly to all matters relating to public safety.”
However , one of the young men who preferred to be anonymous said, “Really, I am not from Katsina, some of us are from different states, though ,we set out from Katsina. We are from different states. We are here for just two weeks work. They told us that we are here for temporary job for just two weeks .They warned us that they don’t employ permanent staff ,as permanent jobs are for the community,so, after our two weeks job, we will go back to our states”.
Another informed source, said ,
“They are here for a seasonal temporary job that will only last for two weeks . The people are for temporary jobs .”
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