‘How ‘mentally unbalanced individual’ killed soldier in Lagos’

By Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja

The Nigerian Army has explained how a soldier died after he was hit on the head with a stick by a mentally unbalanced individual in Imota, Ikorodu area of Lagos.

The Army in a statement issued in reaction to a viral video of the incident explained that the the soldier was who was on an internal security operation was hit on the head while attempting to de-escalate a situation in Imota community on 16 November.

The Army, in the statement, said the colleagues of the soldier promptly killed the attacker and recovered his weapon.

The soldier who sustained severe injury from the attack, according to the statement was subsequently taken to Ikorodu General Hospital where he passed on.

It added that the soldier has been buried according to Islamic rites.

Nigerian Army added that it has instituted investigation into the death of the solder who was under its 81 Division.

The statement was signed by Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations 81 Division Nigerian Army.

See the full statement below

The Headquarters 81 Division Nigerian Army has noted the viral video regarding the unfortunate death of a soldier at Ikorodu general area of Lagos State. Without prejudice to the ongoing investigation into the incident, it is necessary to provide preliminary information on the circumstances surrounding the incident.

On 16 November 2025, at about 4:00 pm, one of the soldiers deployed for internal security duty in the Imota area of Ikorodu while attempting to de-escalate a chaotic situation was attacked by a mentally unstable individual.

The attacker struck the soldier on the head with a heavy log, causing severe injury. The situation was swiftly brought under control by other soldiers at the scene, who neutralized the attacker and recovered the soldiers’ weapon.

The injured soldier was evacuated to Ikorodu General Hospital where he was pronounced dead. He was subsequently buried according to Islamic rite with the Acting Commanding Officer and other officers of the unit in attendance.

The 81 Division Nigerian Army has conveyed condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the deceased soldier. We pray for the repose of his soul and appreciate his service to the nation. The Division has also instituted an investigation into the incident.

We urge the public to exercise caution and report any suspicious activities to the relevant security agencies. We also appeal for responsible reporting on this incident, allowing our investigation to run its course.