The militants yesterday invaded Ewedogbo community in Igando area, terrorizing residents.
As at 1 p.m, sporadic shootings could be heard in the community, a resident, who craved anonymity told our correspondent.
The streets were deserted, while many remained indoor as the police and soldiers moved in to flush out militants from the area.
A Rapid Response Squad, RRS, source told our correspondent that the police used an Armoured Personnel Carrier, APC, as they approached the retreating militants who engaged them in a shoot-out.
Sources said the militants also engaged the police and soldiers in gun battle around Imose and Totowu waterside.
A policeman attached to the Igando Police Station was shot dead by stray bullets from the militants, an unconfirmed source said.
Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Dolapo Badmos did not pick her phone calls when contacted.
Earlier in the morning, a resident at Ewedogbo community sent a Save Our Soul, SOS, message to the police and the state government to quickly act as the militants were attacking the people.
“Please, help us call emergency line right now, Ewedogbo area of Igando, LASU Road is at war, Niger Delta militant are killing people right now, no one can call or go out, I am an eye witness, please, help us spread the information,” the resident stated in an urgent whatsapp message around 8 a.m on Tuesday.
According to him, the policemen stationed in the area ran away following the militants’ invasion.
“The policemen ran, the militants have occupied everywhere right now in Ewedogbon. They have broken the main gate to our house right now,” he said.
A top police officer, who craved anonymity, said the police were aware of the invasion.
He confirmed that policemen had been drafted to the area to protect lives and properties, adding that an Armoured Personnel Carrier, APC, had been stationed there.