Lekki Cinema Deaths: Lagos Asks Operators To Tighten Security

The Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board (LSFVCB) has called on cinema operators across the state to strengthen their security and emergency-response measures following a fatal security incident at a cinema facility in Lekki.

The incident, which occurred at Filmhouse Cinemas IMAX in Lekki on Friday night, reportedly left two people dead after a man allegedly armed with a machete and knife attacked security personnel at the facility.

According to eyewitness accounts, the suspect allegedly attempted to gain entry into the cinema but was stopped by security guards, after which he became violent and attacked two security personnel.

One of the security guards was reportedly stabbed in the chest, while another sustained a stab wound to the back. One of the injured guards later died.

An X user and journalist, Buchi Laba, who said he was at the scene, recounted the incident, saying he had gone to watch Odyssey at the cinema, with the movie ending around 2am.

Buchi said he came out of the cinema to find a huge crowd and blood everywhere, adding that he used his car to take the injured security personnel to the hospital, where one of them reportedly died.

The alleged assailant was subsequently reportedly mobbed and also died.

Reacting to the incident, the LSFVCB expressed sadness over the death of the security officer and extended its condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.

In a statement signed by its Executive Secretary/CEO, Mrs Adebukola Agbaminoja, the Board also wished the injured person a speedy and full recovery.

The Board described the incident as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining effective safety and security measures at cinemas and other entertainment facilities across Lagos State.

While the relevant security agencies continue their investigations, the LSFVCB urged the public to remain calm and refrain from speculation or the circulation of unverified information.

It also called on cinema operators and other stakeholders to continually review and strengthen their security and emergency-response measures in collaboration with the appropriate security agencies.

“The safety and well-being of cinema patrons, employees, and all stakeholders in the entertainment industry remain of utmost importance. The Board calls on cinema operators and other stakeholders to continually review and strengthen their security and emergency-response measures in collaboration with the appropriate security agencies,” the Board said.

The LSFVCB added that its thoughts and prayers were with everyone affected by the incident.

THE WHISTLER reached out to the spokesperson of the Lagos State Police Command, Abimbola Adebisi, for comment but she was yet to respond as of the time of filing this report.