The Lagos State Police Command has officially dismissed rumors and public alarm triggered by a viral video showing 89 young men gathering in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos.
Contrary to widespread speculation, the police confirmed that these individuals are legitimate workers recruited from Katsina State to serve as laborers at the Dangote Refinery located in Lekki.
In a statement released on Friday via the Command’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police Public Relations Officer, explained the swift response by law enforcement. “Upon receipt of the information on May 14, 2025, officers from the Command immediately deployed to the location to ascertain the facts,” he said.
Preliminary investigations verified that the group, numbering 89, had arrived from Katsina State under lawful recruitment for employment at the refinery. The contractor responsible for their recruitment, alongside the refinery’s Chief Security Officer (CSO), confirmed the arrangement and assured that the men had been properly cleared to live and work within the refinery premises.
“The 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,” the statement added.
The Police Command conducted thorough checks on the group, including searches and verification of their National Identification Numbers (NINs). “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 (NINs), which were duly verified,” Hundeyin stated.
In response to public concerns, Commissioner of Police CP Olohundare Jimoh urged calm and discouraged the spread of unverified information. “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,” he affirmed.
Residents are advised to verify information before sharing to prevent unnecessary panic.
