A wave of outrage has followed a social media account alleging that operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) fatally shot a fruit seller during a raid in Makoko, Lagos.
The incident, which reportedly occurred on March 14, 2026, was first shared by a user identified as Biggdammy (@Biggdammy_), who claimed that NDLEA officers stormed the area in the evening to arrest suspected drug dealers.
According to the account, the operation triggered panic as residents and traders fled. “They got to a street before mine in rage, made everyone run helter-skelter with some leaving their wares behind,” the user wrote.
The post further alleged that some suspects initially targeted by the officers escaped with the help of local youths, leading to a confrontation. Amid the chaos, the officers reportedly encountered a fruit seller, identified as Muhammed, who did not flee.
“They shot the Aboki fruit seller-he was one of my favourite fruit sellers-on his forehead and he died instantly,” the user claimed, adding that the victim “did them nothing” and was preparing to break his fast as it was “an hour to Iftar.”
Although Securitynewsalert.com reached out to the NDLEA spokesman, Mr Femi Babafemi, via his WhatsApp on the issue, he did not respond.
The post quickly went viral, drawing widespread condemnation and calls for accountability.
Another user, @KleshofAfricaa, questioned the use of force: “Is NDLEA an armed force? If yes, aren’t they only allowed to make use of arms when in a violent encounter?”
@Odelora_ described the incident as “pure injustice,” adding that “Nigeria needs accountability for these actions.”
Similarly, @__iExquisite wrote: “This is heartbreaking and completely unacceptable. Law enforcement is meant to protect, not become a threat to innocent citizens.”
Some commenters, however, urged caution and called for proper investigation. @Ayomatt stated: “I am not going to simply take your word for it… I hope justice is served if this is true.”
Eyewitness claims also emerged in the thread. A user, @stonerchels0, said: “I drove by the scene. Saw his lifeless body.”
Others reflected on broader concerns about public safety. @TheDavidOmotoye noted: “I should not have to run because you’re chasing a criminal. I am not the criminal you’re looking for.”
Several users directly tagged the NDLEA, demanding an inquiry into the alleged killing.
@RealDonvic001 wrote: “I need you to look into this and bring the culprits amongst your agents to book.”
A civic tech group, @citizen_gavel, indicated interest in pursuing the matter, stating they were trying to contact relatives of the deceased.
While the details of the incident remain unverified, the viral account has reignited concerns over the conduct of law enforcement operations and the safety of civilians during raids.
