Lagos Island turned into a scene of horror last Tuesday night when Basit Kolade, a Nigerian returnee who had come home to marry, was beaten to death in broad daylight — with his bride-to-be watching in tears.
Kolade, 32, had flown in from abroad to make final arrangements for a wedding scheduled for later this month. Instead of wedding bells, his family got a funeral.
—How It Happened—
According to the Lagos State Police Command, the incident occurred around 8pm on September 2, 2026, on Freeman Street, Lagos Island.
SP Abimbola Adebisi, the Command’s spokesperson, said Kolade was in a black Lexus Jeep, KSF 115 JZ, with his fiancée, Ayanda, returning from Ebute Metta when a motorcycle allegedly rammed into them from behind.
“A disagreement ensued,” Adebisi said. “Basit stepped out to confront the rider and demand an explanation. In the process, he reversed the vehicle and hit the motorcycle, causing the rider to fall.”
That single moment triggered a mob.
—Mob Justice—
Witnesses said a group of young men emerged from nearby and descended on Kolade with sticks, stones, and other dangerous weapons.
Ayanda screamed for help. She was pulled to safety by women in the area, but Kolade was left to the mob.
He was rushed to Lagos Island General Hospital, but doctors could not save him. He was confirmed dead hours later.
—Police Arrest Four—
The police confirmed that four suspects had been arrested so far, and investigations were ongoing.
“The Command strongly condemns this act of jungle justice,” SP Adebisi said.
“No individual or group has the right to take the law into their own hands. Anyone found culpable, including those who participated in the mob action, will be arrested and prosecuted.”
She urged residents to allow security agencies to handle disputes, warning that joining a mob attack is itself a crime.
—A Wedding That Will Never Hold—
Kolade had only just returned to Nigeria. Friends say he was excited, counting down to his wedding day.
Now, instead of planning a reception, Ayanda and Kolade’s family are planning his burial.
The killing has reignited public anger over mob violence in Lagos — especially over minor traffic disputes that spiral into deadly attacks.
As of press time, the police said the manhunt for other members of the mob continued.
