A 22-year-old fashion designer, Eniola Oduse, and her two young children, four-year-old Eri and two-year-old Onoara, have tragically died in a fire allegedly caused by arsonists at their home in the Ita Marun community, Ibeju Lekki, Lagos State.
The fire, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, November 26, also left Eniola’s husband, Kehinde, 25, severely injured. He is currently receiving treatment in an undisclosed hospital.
Reports indicate that the family of four was asleep when unidentified individuals broke into their premises around 2 a.m., doused the building with petrol, and ignited the fire.
The attackers allegedly targeted the couple’s bedroom, pouring fuel through an open window before setting it ablaze.
Survivor’s Account of the Incident
Taiwo, Kehinde’s twin sister, recounted the events to reporters. She said the smell of petrol woke Eniola, who alerted her husband. Moments later, the room was engulfed in flames after the perpetrators threw a lit object inside.
“Kehinde managed to escape with burns and ran out to seek help, but his wife and children were trapped in the fire,” Taiwo explained. “When they returned to the house, they found Eniola near the entrance, holding onto her children’s legs in an attempt to save them. Unfortunately, the fire had already claimed their lives.”
Challenges in Securing Medical Help
Family members revealed that both Kehinde and Eniola were rushed to multiple hospitals but were initially turned away due to the severity of their burns. After several hours, they were admitted to a facility in Lagos. Despite the medical efforts, Eniola succumbed to her injuries on Thursday morning.
Ongoing Land Dispute Allegations
A relative, Razaq, suggested the attack may be linked to ongoing land disputes within the community. He claimed the family had faced repeated threats and attacks over their landholdings, which allegedly contributed to the death of their father four months earlier.
“Kehinde’s brother fled the area due to these threats, but Kehinde stayed behind to protect his family,” Razaq said. “Ironically, he had only returned home that Monday night to spend time with his family when the tragedy occurred.”
Aftermath
The charred remains of the apartment and the deceased children have left the community in shock. Eniola and her children have since been buried, while Kehinde remains in critical condition.
Authorities are yet to confirm the identities of the attackers or the motive behind the incident. Investigations are ongoing.
