By Pascal Ibe
Claim
An X user, Overtnews shared a video and claimed Sanwo Olu family house is on fire at Lagos Island.
Verdict
This is Misleading.
The incident occurred in 2020 during EndSARS protests in Lagos
As the hardship protests entered day eight on Thursday, many old or outdated videos were posted on various social media platforms to escalate tension in the country.
An X user named Overtnews on Wednesday shared a video where mob set ablaze the family house of Babajide Sanwolu, the current Lagos State governor, at Lagos Island.
The video by Overtnews raised concerns and anxiety on X.
Verification
When FactWatch typed a keyword, “SANWOLU FAMILY HOUSE ON FIRE“, results indicated that the incident happened in 2020 during the EndSARS protests in Lagos.
According to report by Punch on October 21, 2020, angry youths set ablaze the family home of Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Omididun Street, throwing stones at the house.
Sanwo-Olu had imposed a curfew on the state due to the #EndSARS protests. Soldiers were subsequently called in and eyewitnesses claimed seven persons, mostly youths, died in the attack.
Eyewitnesses told The PUNCH that one of the youths holding a jerry can of petrol was seen soaking the house in petrol but was quickly stopped by residents for fear that the fire could spread uncontrollably.
The eyewitness, who wished to remain anonymous, said, “Around 7.45am, angry youths gathered around Sanwo-Olu’s family home on Omididun Street, Lagos Island, throwing stones and shattering glasses.
“One of the youths poured petrol on the building but was immediately prevented from setting it ablaze because the fire could spread and lead to loss of lives.
Conclusion
The incident happened in 2020. The X user intentionally circulated the to mislead the public and create tension.
