Tragedy struck in Idimu, Alimosho Local Government Area, Lagos State, on Tuesday, November 11, when three party guests and a motor boy were electrocuted during a celebration for a newly conferred chieftaincy title.
According to reports, the motor boy, whose identity has not been disclosed, died instantly at the scene. The celebration was being held on Anjorin Street, following a weeklong coronation anniversary in the community.
Eyewitnesses said the incident occurred when a truck trying to access the street was blocked by one of the party canopies. Some guests, assisted by a truck occupant, attempted to move the canopy. In the process, the metal frame of the canopy came into contact with a live electric wire, electrocuting all four individuals immediately.
Femi Ajiboye, an eyewitness, explained:
“People did not immediately understand what was happening until they saw the victims fall. It became clear that they had been electrocuted.”
The incident caused panic and brought the party to an abrupt end. While three guests were rushed to the hospital and are receiving treatment, the motor boy was confirmed dead on arrival. His remains were later taken by his family for burial.
Another resident recalled seeing the deceased just thirty minutes before the incident while he bought diesel at a nearby filling station, highlighting the suddenness of the tragedy.
When contacted for comment, the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer initially stated she was unaware of the incident and reported that no official case had been lodged at the local station. Follow-up attempts for confirmation were unsuccessful.
This incident is the latest in a series of accidents highlighting poor management of electrical infrastructure and weak enforcement of safety guidelines. In August, a similar tragedy occurred in Shasha, Lagos, where a 45-year-old electrician died while attempting to reconnect power cables.
