The Hidden Lagos: 5 Places Cult Gangs Still Rule After Dark

August 25, 2025 Alphonsoolajide

Lagos may shine bright during the day, but when the sun sets, some corners of the city reveal a darker reality. Despite police raids and government interventions, certain neighborhoods remain notorious for cult gang activities—areas where fear lingers, and residents whisper about who controls the streets after dark. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

1. Mushin – The Old Battleground

Mushin has long carried the reputation of being a cultism hotspot. Known for its vibrant markets and bustling transport hubs, it is also a breeding ground for rival gangs and cult groups. Residents often avoid certain streets at night, especially around the railway axis and Ladipo area, where skirmishes have erupted in recent years.

Known Groups: Black Axe, Eiye Confraternity
Recent Incident: 2024 saw a spike in clashes tied to political thuggery during local elections.

2. Bariga – The Silent Territory

Once a hub for underground music and street art, Bariga still grapples with a lingering presence of cult gangs. These groups operate silently, often tied to street extortion, local turf wars, and violent reprisals.

Hotspots: Somolu-Bariga borders, Ilaje area
Community Efforts: Youth NGOs have started rehabilitation programs to reclaim the streets.

3. Ikotun – The Growing Red Zone

Ikotun’s expanding population and porous routes have made it a haven for cult activities, especially around popular bus stops and joints. Reports link some of these gangs to illicit drug trade and petty armed robbery.

Recent Crackdowns: NDLEA operations in 2025 exposed drug peddling rings tied to cult networks.
Why It Persists: Lack of consistent security patrols and dense population.

4. Ajegunle (A.J. City) – Old Ghosts, New Tricks

Ajegunle, known for its cultural energy and music legends, has a dual identity. While it is home to thriving businesses, certain pockets remain under the grip of local gangs who recruit young boys with promises of fast cash and street protection.

Danger Zones: Boundary-Ajegunle, Awodi-Ora axis
Local Saying: “If you no know person for night, no waka anyhow.”

5. Okokomaiko – The Hidden Trail

Farther out from Lagos mainland’s core, Okokomaiko is one of those places that rarely makes headlines but quietly breeds violent turf rivalries. Transport hubs and university areas nearby create a melting pot for gang recruitment.

Clashes: Students and transport workers have been caught in crossfires.
Community Reaction: Residents say they only feel safe during daylight.

Why Cultism Still Thrives in Lagos

Despite police efforts and occasional raids, cultism in Lagos thrives due to:

Political patronage during elections
High youth unemployment
Drug abuse fueling violence
Weak enforcement in known hotspots

Final Thoughts

These areas represent just a fragment of Lagos’ ongoing battle with cultism. As authorities intensify crackdowns, residents call for not just force, but community-driven solutions—rehabilitation, job creation, and education—to reclaim their streets.