The Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, has wielded the big stick, ordering the immediate closure of Mile 12 Market and restriction of movement in the area.

The governor, who addressed the media on Thursday afternoon, said that he had directed security operatives to deal with anyone seen to be going against the directive of the state government by obstructing law and order.

Between last night and the early hours of this morning, there was heavy chaos at Agiliti area of Mile 12 after members of the community and Hausa okada riders engaged in a free for all fight.

No fewer than three persons are feared dead and several cars set ablaze as Hausa and Yoruba traders clashes.

It was gathered that the foundation for the clash was laid on Tuesday after a Hausa commercial bike rider knocked down a woman.

The bike rider was told to take the woman to the hospital, but the rider and his colleagues refused. They insisted that the motorbike association, which collects tolls from them, should take care of the woman. There was heated argument, which led to a fight, broken bottles and burnt tyres can be seen on the road.

The fighting continued all through Wednesday till today when some thugs, believed to be of Yoruba origin, invaded the market and started attacking the Hausas. They burnt seven cars and killed three Hausa traders.

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni; the Commander of the Rapid Response Squad, Olatunji Disu; the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operation, Lagos State Police Command; and teams of policemen are currently there to help the situation.

As a result of the fight and deaths recorded, Governor Ambode shuts down mile 12 market till further notice. (Channels/TVC)

•Photo shows a section of the Mile 12 Market, Lagos, after today’s crisis.

Update news