A somber air enveloped the scene at the Lagos lagoon as the lifeless body of a man, identified only as Azeez, was recovered after he reportedly leaped into the water while being pursued by a mob. The tragic incident unfolded near the Lekki/Ikoyi link bridge, where a large crowd had gathered, bearing witness to the unfortunate turn of events.
According to reports from the Director in charge of Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the deceased, Azeez, had drowned before emergency responders arrived at the scene. His body was subsequently evacuated and taken to the Mainland General Hospital mortuary in Yaba.
The circumstances leading up to Azeez's fatal plunge into the lagoon paint a harrowing picture of mob justice gone awry. Eyewitnesses recounted how Azeez found himself in a desperate bid to escape a mob accusing him of stealing bags of cement. Pursued by one Elijah Amos, Azeez's last resort was a fatal leap into the waters below.
In an official statement released by the police, the incident was classified as a case of "suicide/drowning." However, questions linger about the role of the mob in Azeez's demise and the prevalence of vigilantism in Nigerian society.
The tragedy has sparked a range of reactions from the public, with some expressing sympathy for Azeez's fate, while others attribute blame to his alleged criminal activities. Amidst the discourse, concerns have been raised about the need for due process and the dangers of extrajudicial actions.
As investigations into the incident continue, it serves as a grim reminder of the complexities surrounding issues of law enforcement, justice, and community vigilantism in Nigeria. Azeez's untimely death underscores the urgent need for dialog
