The Nigerian Army has vowed to take swift disciplinary action against a soldier accused of causing the death of a commercial bus driver in Ondo State, describing the act as “unprofessional” and contrary to military ethics.
The development was confirmed in an official statement released Thursday via the Army’s verified X (formerly Twitter) handle by Major Njoka Irabor, the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 32 Artillery Brigade, Akure.
Incident Details
According to the statement, the incident occurred on Sunday, October 13, 2025, near a military checkpoint in Akunu, Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The deceased driver, who was en route from Akure to Abuja, reportedly encountered mechanical issues with his vehicle. Passengers, frustrated by the delay, demanded a refund of their transport fares and sought assistance from a soldier stationed at the checkpoint.
The Army stated that the soldier responded but “displayed very uncouth and unprofessional conduct,” leading to a physical altercation with the driver. The confrontation allegedly resulted in injuries that proved fatal.
Army Response and Investigation
Major Irabor confirmed that the 32 Artillery Brigade immediately evacuated the driver to a medical facility and assumed full responsibility for his treatment.
“He was initially managed in Akoko before being transferred to the Ondo State Specialist Hospital, Akure, and later to the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, where he sadly passed away on Monday, October 14, 2025,” the statement read.
The Army acknowledged that the soldier’s conduct violated the Rules of Engagement and Code of Conduct guiding military operations at checkpoints. It assured the public that disciplinary proceedings had begun and that the findings would be made public.
“The Nigerian Army, as a reputable organisation anchored on discipline, expresses its deepest sympathy to the family of the deceased. The soldier involved will face the full weight of the law, and justice will be served without delay,” the Army added.
Condolence Visit and Family Support
The Army said representatives of the 32 Artillery Brigade had paid a condolence visit to the family of the deceased and to leaders of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Ondo State.
The Brigade reportedly pledged to handle burial expenses and assist the late driver’s children to ensure their education is not disrupted.
“We will not shy away from our responsibilities,” the statement emphasized, adding that the Army is liaising with the Ondo State Government to ensure a peaceful resolution and long-term welfare for the family.
Background: Longstanding Concerns Over Military Misconduct
Incidents of alleged abuse of power by security personnel at checkpoints have been a recurring issue across Nigeria.
In April 2020, a motorist identified as Joseph Pessu was shot dead by a soldier in Warri, Delta State, for allegedly disobeying a sit-at-home order during the COVID-19 lockdown. The case drew national outrage and renewed calls for stronger accountability mechanisms within the armed forces.
Civil society groups continue to advocate a zero-tolerance policy toward military brutality and for transparent disciplinary measures when violations occur.
Conclusion
The Nigerian Army’s swift acknowledgment of responsibility and commitment to disciplinary action marks a notable step toward rebuilding public trust. However, observers say sustained accountability, transparency, and reforms in checkpoint operations are necessary to prevent future abuses.
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