Nigerian Army says it has arrested a soldier who allegedly stabbed a policeman to death in Lagos.
The unidentified soldier was arrested on Thursday for allegedly killing Inspector Saka Ganiyu with AP/No 223409, attached to the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Enforcement Unit (TASKFORCE) around 7 am, at the Volks area of Ojo.
The Inspector who was on lawful enforcement duty was said to have stopped the soldier allegedly driving a white T4 commercial bus against traffic.
The bus driver, who was later identified as a military personnel, was not in uniform. He was said to have created a scene when the enforcement team tried to impound his bus.
He allegedly resisted the team and turned violent before stabbing the Police Inspector on his right thigh.
Spokesman for the Taskforce, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, confirmed the incident in a statement.
He added that the injured policeman was rushed to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.
He stated, “Despite immediate medical attention and being rushed to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Inspector Ganiyu was tragically pronounced dead.
“The Lagos State Taskforce condemns this brutal and unwarranted attack on law enforcement officers who were dutifully carrying out their legal responsibilities to ensure compliance with traffic regulations and maintain public order in the state.
“The incident has been escalated to the State Police Command for immediate investigation, and justice will be pursued for the loss of our dedicated officer.
“The Lagos State Taskforce extends its deepest condolences to the family of Inspector Saka Ganiyu during this difficult time.”
Reacting to the incident, the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army said the soldier had been arrested.
It added that the incident was being investigated, describing it as unfortunate.
Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Olabisi Ayeni, who confirmed the soldier’s arrest, said he had been handed over to the military police for investigation and further disciplinary procedures.
Ayeni said, “The incident is highly regrettable, given the division’s commitment to the Nigerian Army Code of Conduct and Rules of Engagement.
“The Nigerian Army has continuously sensitized its personnel not to engage in activities that would tarnish its image and bridge the trust with other security agencies and the civil populace.
“The General Officer Commanding 81 Division NA commiserates with the family of the deceased and the Nigeria Police on this unfortunate incident.
“The division reassures the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted, and appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken to ensure that justice is served.
“We will continue to collaborate with other security agencies to ensure security of lives and property in line with the constitutional mandate of the Nigerian Army.”
