The Nigerian Army has explained the circumstances that led to the death of a soldier during a route march in Lagos State.
The biannual route march scheduled for Friday morning, near Myhoung Barracks in Yaba, Lagos State, was designed to enhance operational readiness across its formation in the state.
During the training exercise, the Army 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.”
On Friday, a statement by the Headquarters 81 Division Nigerian Army (NA) signed by Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, Lieu. Col. Olabisi Ayeni noted that the exercise was announced on various media platforms to create public awareness.
“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,” the statement read.
The General Officer Commanding 81 Division NA, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, extended his condolences to the families of the deceased soldier while praying for the speedy recovery of the wounded.
He also called for calm among the public as an investigation into the sad occurrence 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,” the Army said.
