Lagos communities, leisure centres beef up security after cinema attack

Following the tragic double murder at Filmhouse Cinemas IMAX in Lekki, Lagos State on Friday, several entertainment centers in the area have tightened their security measures to avoid a repeat of the incident, according to PUNCH Metro. The attack occurred after a machete-wielding man tried to enter the cinema but was stopped by security personnel.

The suspect, who was also armed with a machete, became violent when denied entry and attacked two security guards. One guard was killed and another injured before the suspect was eventually subdued and died in the struggle. Eyewitnesses reported being traumatized by the incident.

In response to the attack, residents in Lekki Phase One have reviewed their security arrangements, with a focus on access control and visitor monitoring. The security guard at an entertainment facility in the area said the incident prompted a review of security procedures, adding more personnel to their team to handle potentially suspicious individuals. A bouncer at a nearby nightclub confirmed the increased alertness, stating they now have additional bouncers on duty due to the incident.

The estate itself has also adjusted its security measures, with visitors now being closely monitored and security personnel urged to remain vigilant. The President of the Lekki Estates Residents and Stakeholders Association called for a systemic approach to address the root cause of the threat, urging the authorities to eliminate the underlying issue rather than just increasing security measures temporarily.

The association has activated its security platform to better protect residents, including those who jog in the area. The LERSA chairman emphasized the need for residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to their estate security committees and relevant authorities. He also appealed to the Lagos State Government to find a sustainable solution to the presence of homeless people and vulnerable individuals living in makeshift settlements around the Lekki axis.