Navy Officers Allegedly Attack Estate Owner, Police Escorts in Lagos

Lagos, Nigeria – A violent altercation involving Nigerian Navy personnel has left an estate owner, Saeed Ibile, and his police escorts injured in Oko Orisan, Epe, Lagos State. The incident, which occurred during what witnesses describe as a targeted attack, has raised concerns over military lawlessness and the growing tension between security agencies.

According to eyewitness accounts, the conflict began when Saeed Ibile’s son arrived at the estate and was approached by two men in plain clothes. The men, later identified as naval officers on an alleged surveillance mission, reportedly refused to provide proper identification when questioned by a police officer on duty. The situation escalated into a heated exchange, prompting Ibile’s son to intervene.

Security sources say the naval officers inquired if the young man was “the Ibile,” to which he responded negatively. Despite this, he was allegedly harassed by the officers. A private security guard in the estate quickly alerted Saeed Ibile, who arrived at the scene with three police escorts. By this time, the naval personnel had called for reinforcements, and the estate was soon surrounded by heavily armed officers.

Ibile, who is reportedly familiar with most naval officers stationed at a nearby base, said he was alarmed by the presence of unfamiliar faces. Sensing the possibility of violence, he instructed his police escorts to avoid engaging in gunfire. He also directed his son to leave the premises, but as the young man attempted to exit, a navy vehicle allegedly rammed into his car, blocking his escape.

Moments later, gunshots rang out, and Ibile’s vehicle was struck multiple times. The estate owner sustained bullet wounds but managed to escape. However, his police escorts, who reportedly refrained from returning fire, were overpowered and taken to a naval base, where they were allegedly paraded as criminals. One of the officers sustained a gunshot wound during the attack.

Despite circulating video footage of the confrontation, the Nigerian Police Force has yet to issue an official statement condemning the incident. Analysts say the silence from police authorities raises concerns about the safety of officers on lawful duty.

Meanwhile, conflicting reports have emerged regarding the motive behind the incident. A report by *Sahara Reporters* suggested that the naval personnel were deployed to prevent land grabbing. However, sources close to Ibile dismissed this claim, arguing that he is the legitimate owner of the estate.

Legal experts and security analysts have called for a thorough investigation into the attack, questioning the Navy’s role in what appears to be a civilian dispute. They argue that even if land ownership were in contention, the military has no constitutional mandate to enforce land rights.

As of the time of this report, both Ibile’s vehicle and the police patrol car remain in naval custody. The Lagos State Government and security agencies have yet to announce any investigative measures or disciplinary actions against those involved.

Stakeholders, including human rights groups, are calling for an independent probe, warning that unchecked military aggression could further erode public trust in the nation’s security institutions.

More details will follow as the situation develops.