Tension in Lagos as NNPC staff, Police clash over disputed property

Tension erupted in Lagos when members of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Staff Cooperative clashed with individuals suspected to be plainclothes police officers over a disputed property. 

While the exact ownership or legal status of the property remains unclear, a viral Facebook video shared by Vanguard on Friday shows a chaotic scene of physical confrontation.

The video captures NNPC staff members engaging in a heated altercation, shouting accusations at the alleged officers for attempting a forceful entry into the premises.

“You are thieves! Ole! Ole!” the staff yelled, demanding that the alleged officers identify themselves and present valid police identification.

One staff member could be heard saying, “My responsibility is to guard the property of NNPC Cooperators here.”

A man, believed to be one of the plainclothes officers, responded angrily, “Oh, you’re calling policemen thieves? You even attempted to slap me. We shall see.”

The altercation reportedly escalated as some men attempted to break down the door of the property, prompting fears of a possible breach of peace.

Efforts to reach the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, for official comment were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.