Residents of several communities in Lagos State's Ibeju-Lekki area have been gripped by anxiety following reports of an influx of unfamiliar individuals and viral social media claims alleging a bandit invasion.

The situation escalated after videos circulated online claiming that suspected bandits had been apprehended within parts of the district. The reports sparked widespread concern among residents, prompting calls for increased security and official clarification.

In response, Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Chairman, Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, assured residents that authorities were taking the matter seriously. He confirmed that local and state security agencies had been alerted and were actively monitoring developments.

According to Olowa, intelligence gathering and security measures have already been intensified to ensure the continued safety of communities across the local government area. He urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activity through appropriate channels.

The chairman also cautioned against taking the law into private hands, stressing that no individual should be subjected to harassment, profiling or unlawful treatment based on unverified allegations.

The Lagos State Police Command has categorically denied reports of any bandit invasion, describing claims that armed groups were targeting schools and communities in Ibeju-Lekki, Imota, Oke-Afo and other parts of the state as false and misleading.

Police spokesperson SP Benjamin Hundeyin said there was currently no security crisis or coordinated attack in any part of Lagos State. He added that schools remain safe and that security agencies continue to maintain surveillance and operational presence across affected areas.

The controversy took a tragic turn after a 24-year-old motorcyclist, identified as Kulaha Ayuba, was allegedly mistaken for a bandit by a group of youths. He was reportedly attacked and killed, while his motorcycle was stolen before his body was abandoned in a swamp.

Police have since arrested 15 suspects in connection with the incident, with investigations ongoing. Authorities say those found responsible will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The police command condemned the spread of unverified information, warning that false reports can trigger panic, public disorder and mob violence. Residents were urged to rely on official sources for security information and to avoid sharing unconfirmed claims online.

As investigations continue, both local authorities and security agencies have appealed for calm, assuring residents that measures remain in place to protect lives and property throughout the area.