The Lagos State Police Command has clarified concerns surrounding a viral video showing a large group of northern youths in Lekki, Lagos, reassuring the public that the individuals are legitimate labourers recruited to work at the Dangote Refinery.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the command confirmed that 89 young men—filmed in front of the Dano Company premises in the Ibeju-Lekki area—arrived in Lagos on May 14, 2025, from Katsina State for lawful employment.
“Upon receiving the information, officers were immediately deployed to investigate the situation. Preliminary findings revealed that the men were brought in by a contractor working with the Dangote Refinery to carry out short-term labour work,” Hundeyin said.
The contractor, who presented himself at the police station, confirmed he had personally recruited the men for temporary roles at the refinery. His account was supported by the refinery’s Chief Security Officer, who verified that the workers were screened, cleared for entry, and would be housed on the facility’s premises.
Each individual reportedly presented valid identification, including National Identification Numbers (NIN), and underwent a thorough security check. Police found no incriminating items in their possession.
Commissioner of Police, CP Owohunwa Olohundare Jimoh, urged Lagosians to refrain from spreading unverified or alarmist content that could incite public fear. “The command is fully committed to maintaining peace and security in all parts of Lagos. We call on the public to trust in the process and avoid undue speculation,” he stated.
Despite the clarification, one of the workers, who spoke on condition of anonymity, offered further insight, revealing that not all of the labourers were from Katsina. “Some of us are from different states, but we all left from Katsina. We were told this is a temporary two-week job. Permanent jobs are reserved for people from the host community, so once the job ends, we’ll return to our states,” he said.
An additional source close to the recruitment process confirmed that the labourers were engaged for seasonal work and would not be retained beyond the agreed period.
The police have reiterated that no threat to public safety has been established and that all measures are in place to ensure continued peace in the area.