Lagos State Police have arrested a Chelsea fan and eight other suspects after a violent incident in the Lekki area of Lagos on Friday, April 24, 2026.
The arrests followed a viral video showing individuals carrying machetes and other dangerous weapons on a dual carriageway between the Chisco and Osakpa bus stops. After reports from residents, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, ordered a quick operation that led to the arrests. One of the suspects was seen wearing a Chelsea F.C. home jersey during the incident.
The police said the suspects are being investigated for breach of public peace and causing unrest.
The incident comes at a time when football attention is rising ahead of the 2026 FA Cup final between Manchester City and Chelsea, scheduled for May 16 at Wembley Stadium. Rivalries around football often create tension in some local viewing areas, especially during big European matches.
In England, Chelsea’s recent 1–0 win over Leeds United at Wembley, with the highlight also posted on Chelsea’s official YouTube channel, has increased discussions around the club’s direction under interim manager Calum McFarlane. After Enzo Fernández scored to send Chelsea into the final, some fans and analysts are now debating whether the club should continue with the current coaching setup.
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Softfootball believes that after the investigation is completed, authorities must focus more on improving safety at football viewing centers in Lagos to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The nine suspects remain in police custody and will be charged after investigations. The Lagos State Police Command has restated its commitment to maintaining peace and safety, while football fans now look ahead to the FA Cup final at Wembley.
