By NkechinEze
The Headquarters, 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army, has commenced disciplinary proceedings against a soldier involved in the tragic death of a commercial bus driver at Akunu in Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State.
In a statement signed by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 32 Artillery Brigade, Major Njoka Irabor, the Brigade expressed deep regret over the unfortunate incident which occurred on Sunday, October 13, 2025. According to the statement, the deceased driver, who was en route Abuja from Akure, encountered mechanical problems near a military checkpoint at Akunu.
Major Irabor explained that the situation worsened when some passengers, frustrated by the delay, demanded a refund of their transport fares. One of the passengers reportedly sought the intervention of a soldier deployed at the checkpoint to help recover their money. However, the intervention turned tragic when the soldier, in what the Army described as “uncouth and unprofessional conduct,” got into an altercation with the driver that escalated into physical contact.
“The soldier exhibited an act that is contrary to the Rules of Engagement and Code of Conduct guiding his deployment at the checkpoint,” the statement read.
Upon learning of the incident, the Brigade Headquarters immediately evacuated the injured driver to a medical facility, took full responsibility for his medical bills, and assigned an officer to monitor his treatment. The driver was first treated at a hospital in Akoko before being referred to the Ondo State Specialist Hospital, Akure, and subsequently to the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, where he sadly passed away on Monday, October 14, 2025.
Major Irabor emphasized that the Nigerian Army, as a reputable and disciplined institution, remains deeply pained by the incident and is determined to ensure that justice is served.
“The Nigerian Army wishes to express its deepest sympathy and reassure our unwavering commitment to the family of the deceased and close associates of speedy dispensation of disciplinary action against the soldier. The soldier will face the full wrath of the law, and the outcome of the process will be made public,” he stated.
As part of efforts to support the bereaved family, the Brigade has paid condolence visits to the deceased’s relatives and the leadership of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Ondo State. The Army also pledged to cover the burial expenses and assist with welfare arrangements to ensure that the loss of the family’s breadwinner does not hinder the education of his children.
Major Irabor further revealed that a liaison officer from the Nigerian Army is maintaining constant communication with the family as burial plans continue.
Additionally, the Ondo State Government has commended the swift and humane handling of the matter by the 32 Artillery Brigade, pledging to support ongoing efforts to prioritize the welfare and education of the deceased driver’s children.
Major Irabor concluded that the Nigerian Army remains steadfast in upholding discipline, professionalism, and accountability within its ranks, reiterating that acts of indiscipline will not be condoned under any circumstances.
