The Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board (LSFVCB) has called on cinema operators and other entertainment stakeholders to strengthen security and emergency-response measures following a fatal attack at a cinema facility in Lekki, Lagos, on Friday night.
The incident, which occurred at the car park of Filmhouse Cinemas IMAX, reportedly involved a man armed with a machete and a knife who attacked people, resulting in the death of two persons and injuries to others.
In a statement, the Executive Secretary/CEO of the LSFVCB, Mrs Adebukola Agbaminoja, expressed deep concern over the security breach and commiserated with the families, friends and colleagues of those affected by the incident.
Agbaminoja said the development underscored the urgent need for cinema operators to maintain robust security systems capable of protecting patrons, employees and other users of entertainment facilities.
She said, “The unfortunate incident is a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining effective safety and security measures at cinemas and other entertainment facilities across Lagos State.”
The LSFVCB chief urged cinema operators and other stakeholders to conduct regular reviews of their security arrangements and emergency-response protocols, stressing that such measures must be implemented in collaboration with relevant security agencies.
According to her, the safety and security of cinema patrons and employees must remain a priority across the entertainment industry.
“The safety and well-being of cinema patrons, employees and all stakeholders in the entertainment industry remain of utmost importance,” she said.
Agbaminoja urged members of the public to remain calm as relevant security agencies continue investigations into the incident, while cautioning against speculation and the circulation of unverified information.
She further called on entertainment facilities to remain vigilant and ensure that adequate security measures are in place to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this unfortunate incident,” she said.
