The Nigerian Army has launched an investigation and initiated disciplinary action against a soldier accused of involvement in the death of a commercial bus driver in Akunu, Akoko North East Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The investigation began days after the commercial driver was pronounced dead by medical personnel at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, following injuries sustained during an altercation with the soldier.
It was gathered that the incident occurred three days ago when the commercial bus, driven by the deceased who was en route from Akure to Abuja, developed a mechanical fault near a military checkpoint in Akunu.
According to eyewitnesses, after the breakdown, passengers on the bus began demanding a refund of their transport fares, prompting one of them to call a soldier stationed at the checkpoint for assistance.
As gathered, the soldier allegedly engaged the driver in a physical altercation, which resulted in serious injuries.
Upon receiving the report, the 32 Artillery Brigade promptly evacuated the injured driver to a nearby hospital, covered all medical expenses, and assigned an officer to monitor his treatment.
Although the victim was later transferred from the Ondo State Specialist Hospital to FMC for further medical care, he passed away despite efforts by medical practitioners to save him.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 32 Artillery Brigade, Major Njoka Irabor, the soldier’s conduct was described as “uncouth, unprofessional, and contrary to the Rules of Engagement and Code of Conduct guiding personnel deployed at military checkpoints.”
“The Nigerian Army deeply regrets the unfortunate incident and expresses its heartfelt sympathy to the family of the deceased,” Major Irabor stated, assuring that the erring soldier “will face the full wrath of the law” and that the outcome of the disciplinary process will be made public.
“As part of its commitment to justice and welfare, the 32 Artillery Brigade has paid condolence visits to the family of the deceased and to the leadership of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Ondo State. The Army has also pledged to take responsibility for the burial expenses and to provide welfare support to the victim’s family, including ensuring the continuation of his children’s education,” the statement read.
Major Irabor reaffirmed that the Nigerian Army remains a disciplined institution that does not condone acts of misconduct among its personnel.
He added that the Ondo State Government has commended the Brigade’s proactive measures in addressing the matter, as well as its continued support for the family of the deceased driver.
