A tragic incident has shaken a church community in Ijegun, a suburb of Lagos State, after a choir leader was electrocuted while allegedly helping a group of robbers steal newly installed church instruments.
The shocking event happened just days after the church invested in a brand-new sound system. Members of the church had celebrated the purchase, describing it as a major step forward for their worship services. However, the joy quickly turned to sorrow when the equipment became the target of criminals operating under the cover of darkness.
According to eyewitnesses and residents in the area, the robbery took place late at night. The suspects reportedly broke into the church by creating a hole in one of the walls. It was gathered that the thieves carefully planned the operation, arriving with a vehicle to move the stolen items.
Sources said the robbers went straight for the newly installed instruments, including speakers and other sound equipment. They worked quickly, loading the items into their vehicle. What has left many in disbelief is the claim that the church’s own choir leader was involved in the crime.
Members of the congregation described the deceased choir leader as someone who was well known and trusted in the church. He had reportedly served in the choir department for years and was actively involved in church activities. His alleged involvement in the robbery has left many struggling to understand what could have led to such a decision.
Witnesses claimed that the choir leader assisted the robbers in carrying the stolen equipment out of the church building. It was gathered that he stayed behind briefly and was the last person to leave the premises.
Tragedy struck as he attempted to exit the church with some of the instruments. In the process, he reportedly came into contact with an exposed electrical wire within the building. Those nearby said they heard a loud crackling sound, followed by a sudden thud.
When people rushed to check what had happened, they found the choir leader lying on the ground. He had been electrocuted. Residents said he died instantly from the electric shock.
Meanwhile, the other suspected robbers fled the scene immediately after the incident. They reportedly escaped in their vehicle, leaving their alleged accomplice behind. As of the time of filing this report, it was not clear if any arrests had been made in connection with the robbery.
The church community has been thrown into deep shock and mourning. Many members said they were still trying to process the news, not only of the attempted robbery but also of the alleged betrayal by someone they trusted.
“It is very painful,” one church member said. “We just contributed money to buy the new sound system. We were happy and thanking God for it. Now this has happened.”
Another resident of the area described the incident as both tragic and disturbing. “We never expected something like this. To hear that a church leader was involved is shocking. It is a lesson for everyone,” he said.
Churches in many parts of Nigeria have in recent years faced security challenges, including theft and vandalism. Expensive musical instruments and sound systems are often targets because they can be easily resold. As churches continue to invest in modern equipment to improve worship services, security has become a growing concern.
In Lagos, especially in fast-growing communities like Ijegun, residents have raised concerns about rising cases of burglary and night-time crimes. Community leaders have repeatedly called for improved security patrols and better lighting in public areas.
The tragic death of the choir leader has also sparked conversations about the dangers of electrical hazards. Experts warn that exposed wires and faulty installations can pose serious risks, especially in buildings where renovations or installations have recently taken place. Authorities often advise property owners to ensure proper electrical safety checks after installing new equipment.
As news of the incident spread, many residents gathered near the church premises, expressing disbelief over what had occurred. Some described it as a sad end that could have been avoided.
The church leadership has not released an official statement at the time of this report. However, sources within the church said counseling sessions may be organized for members who are struggling to cope with the shock.
The remains of the deceased choir leader have reportedly been deposited in a morgue. Police authorities are expected to investigate both the alleged robbery and the circumstances surrounding the electrocution.
For now, the Ijegun church community remains in mourning, grappling with a tragedy that has left behind questions, pain and a strong sense of disbelief. What began as an alleged act of theft ended in sudden death, turning a night of crime into a story of loss that many in the area will not forget anytime soon.