Some dog owners and enthusiasts are casting doubt on claims that three dogs allegedly mauled a security guard to death on November 5, 2024, at Pinnock Estate, Ilasan, Lekki. Despite the tragedy, skepticism remains high about the dogs’ alleged culpability.
The Lagos State Police Command, however, maintains that while investigations are still in progress, the dogs might indeed be responsible for the guard’s death.
The deceased guard, who was reportedly on duty that night, was allegedly attacked by dogs belonging to one Salisu Mustapha. Following the incident, Mustapha was taken into police custody.
The case has sparked a heated debate online, with many Nigerians expressing strong opinions about whether the dogs were truly to blame and, if so, whether they should be euthanized.
Several dog owners and advocates have argued that the video footage recorded after the incident doesn’t conclusively prove that the dogs were responsible for the guard’s death.
A prominent influencer on X, known as Arojinle (@arojinle1), voiced skepticism: “First, responsible dog ownership is paramount. Whoever has dogs must ensure they’re well managed and not allowed to roam.
“Now to the caption in this video—if you know even a little about dogs, you’ll know THEY DIDN’T KILL THE MAN! If they had, his clothes would be torn, and he’d be covered in blood. The dogs’ mouths would have blood too. They appear to be curious, sniffing around the man and the environment to analyze scent cues.
“For all we know, the man could be dead from unrelated causes, unconscious, or intoxicated. Until we have an official report, we won’t know what happened. One thing’s clear—the dogs DIDN’T kill the man.”
Another user, @iMobo, added, “Has an autopsy been done to determine if the dogs actually killed him?” echoing similar doubts and questioning the police’s initial findings.
Commenter @Jesse1313 added to the chorus of skepticism: “I still don’t believe these dogs killed that man. Did the man have bite marks to show he was bitten?”
Similarly, Asake Alagbo questioned the behavior of the dogs, remarking, “They were the ones that killed the man, yet they’re so calm? Normally, dogs would be defensive if they’d attacked. There are no blood stains on them, and one of them is even in the gutter, just exploring. Three dogs on one man would leave signs—blood, torn clothes, something. The video shows they’re wondering what happened. Further investigation is needed.”
In response, Lagos State Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin addressed the skepticism directly. He replied to @arojinle1, writing, “Are you sure? I won’t post gory images, but the victim had bite marks and tears on his body from head to toe. The investigation is ongoing.”
Hundeyin reassured the public that a comprehensive investigation was underway and urged patience until the facts could be fully established.
The incident has sparked wider conversations about animal control, pet ownership, and public safety in Lagos, with calls growing for stricter regulations and increased accountability for pet owners.
As the debate rages on, Lagosians are left with the difficult question: should the dogs be held accountable, or does the responsibility rest solely with their owner?
For now, the dogs remain under police watch, awaiting the conclusion of an investigation that could set a precedent for how similar cases involving pets and public safety are handled in Nigeria.
