Nigerian Army Confirms One Soldier Killed, Others Injured As Motorist Rams Into Jogging Troops In Lagos

One soldier of the Nigerian Army in Lagos State has been confirmed dead while several others were injured when a private car driver on Friday rammed into troops of 81 Division Nigerian Army (NA) Headquarters during their Bi-Annual Route March near Myhoung Barracks in the Yaba area of the state.

The route march, which is a Nigerian Army training exercise designed to enhance operational readiness, involved the Nigerian Army formations across Lagos State.

The Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 81 Division Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, who confirmed the incident in a statement said the exercise had earlier been announced on various media platforms to create public awareness.

However, Ayeni said, “Tragically, a driver in a private vehicle recklessly ran into the participating troops resulting in the death of a soldier with others sustaining various degrees of injuries.

“The deceased has been deposited in the mortuary while the injured are currently receiving medical care at 68 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital Yaba, Lagos.

“The 81 Division Military Police in conjunction with other relevant security agencies are conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to this incident.”

He added, “The General Officer Commanding 81 Division NA, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, wishes to express his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased soldier while praying for the speedy recovery of the wounded.

“He has also called for calm among the public as investigation into the sad occurrence has commenced.

“The Division remains steadfast in its commitment to training and readiness to discharge its duties despite this devastating event.

“Furthermore, this tragic loss will not deter the Division’s dedication to safeguarding the lives and properties within its Area of Operations in accordance with the NA’s constitutional mandate.”