TWO people have been feared dead following a violent attack in the car park of Filmhouse Cinemas IMAX in the Lekki area of Lagos.
News Point Nigeria reports that the incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday and was later confirmed by the management of Filmhouse in a statement released during the day.
According to reports, a man armed with a cutlass attacked a security personnel of the organisation and another individual at the premises.
While the motive for the attack remains unconfirmed, it was gathered that the victims resisted the attacker and prevented him from gaining entry into the facility.
Buchi Laba, an eyewitness and sports journalist, recounted the incident in a post on X.
Laba stated that one of the victims was stabbed in the chest, while the other sustained a stab wound to the back. He also claimed that one of the victims died while being transported to the hospital.
In its statement, Filmhouse expressed deep sadness over the incident and confirmed that an investigation was underway.
The entertainment firm also commended the deceased individuals for their bravery, stating that their actions helped contain the situation and restore safety.
“Filmhouse Group is deeply saddened by a security incident that took place outside the premises, in the car park of one of our locations, in the early hours of this morning,” the statement reads.
“The incident was unrelated to our regular operations. We are working closely with the relevant authorities, who are leading the ongoing investigation, and have taken additional precautionary measures across our locations.
“Both individuals stood between danger and the people in their care, and it is through their bravery that the situation was contained and safety restored. Their commitment and courage in that moment will not be forgotten.
“The safety and wellbeing of our staff and guests remain our highest priority. Security across all our locations has been increased and prioritised, and the safety of our guests and everyone within our premises remains of the utmost importance to us. We continue to monitor the ongoing situation.”
The incident has since generated concern among residents and patrons, with attention focused on the circumstances surrounding the attack and the identity and motive of the assailant.
Efforts by News Point Nigeria to reach the Lagos State Police Command for an official comment on the incident were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.