…Assures deceased’s family of justice and support
By Tola Gbadamosi
The Headquarters 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Akure, has commenced disciplinary action against a soldier allegedly involved in the death of a commercial driver at Akunu, in Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The incident occurred on Sunday, October 13, 2025, when the late driver, who was en route from Akure to Abuja, had a mechanical breakdown near a military checkpoint at Akunu. Passengers reportedly demanded a refund of their fares, prompting one of them to seek the assistance of a soldier stationed at the checkpoint.
According to a statement issued by Major Njoka Irabor, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 32 Artillery Brigade, the soldier’s intervention turned confrontational, leading to a physical altercation with the driver. The soldier’s conduct, the statement noted, was “uncouth, unprofessional, and contrary to the Rules of Engagement and Code of Conduct guiding his deployment.”
Upon learning of the incident, the Brigade evacuated the injured driver to a medical facility and covered all medical expenses. He was later referred to the Ondo State Specialist Hospital, Akure, and subsequently to the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, where he passed away on Monday, October 14, 2025.
The Brigade expressed deep regret over the incident and extended condolences to the family of the deceased and members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Ondo State. It assured that the soldier involved would face appropriate disciplinary measures and that the outcome would be made public.
As part of its intervention, the Brigade has pledged to cover the burial expenses of the deceased and provide welfare support to his family, including ensuring that his children’s education is not disrupted.
“The Nigerian Army, as a disciplined and reputable institution, remains committed to upholding justice and accountability,” the statement read. “We assure the bereaved family of our continued support and swift conclusion of the disciplinary process.”
The Ondo State Government has commended the Brigade’s prompt response and commitment to resolving the matter amicably, while expressing readiness to support the welfare of the deceased driver’s family.