Operations at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex have been partially suspended following a violent confrontation at the Balogun Business Association (BBA) market that left one person dead and three others injured.
The incident occurred on Sunday along the Badagry Expressway corridor, prompting management of the complex to seal off the affected section in an effort to restore order and prevent further escalation.
It was gathered that the clash began when a task force set up by the management board moved to enforce a stop-work directive on unauthorised construction within the complex.
The enforcement team was reportedly attacked by armed individuals who opened fire during the operation.
One member of the task force was killed, while others sustained gunshot injuries.
An eyewitness said the enforcement team was not aware the attackers were armed before approaching the site.
“One of the task force members was shot dead instantly, while others were wounded,” the witness said.
The injured victims were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Confirming the incident, the Executive Director of the management board, Mrs Veronica Ndanusa, said the affected section of the market would remain shut until those responsible are identified and arrested.
“I ordered the closure of the BBA section to prevent further breakdown of law and order after a task force member was killed on duty,” she stated.
“The plaza will remain under police lock and key until the perpetrators are apprehended.”
She added that the Trade Fair Complex is a Federal Government facility under the supervision of the Ministry of Trade and Investment, with traders operating under regulated lease agreements.
The Chairman of the Trade Fair Task Force, Alhaji Bakare, described the incident as a coordinated attack.
“They brought in armed men who opened fire on us. One of my team members was killed, and others were seriously injured,” he said.
The Chief Security Officer of the complex, Bawa Outa, said warnings had earlier been issued over illegal construction activities before the situation escalated.
Security operatives, including police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and military personnel, were deployed to the scene to restore calm and evacuate casualties.