The Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 32 Artillery Brigade, Major Njoka Irabor, disclosed this in a statement on the official X account of the Nigerian Army, saying the tragedy occurred when the bus driver, travelling from Akure to Abuja, experienced mechanical problems near a military checkpoint in Akunu, Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State.

“Unfortunately, passengers in the vehicle started requesting a refund of their transport fare. Subsequently, a passenger reached out to a soldier deployed at Akunu checkpoint to help the passengers retrieve their money from the driver”, the statement partly read.

The statement also noted that the soldier’s actions were unprofessional and in violation of military conduct; therefore, the Army immediately took responsibility for the driver’s medical care after the incident.

“Consequently, the soldier showed up and displayed very uncouth and unprofessional conduct, resulting in an altercation with the driver, which led to physical contact between the soldier and the driver. 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 conveyed the Army’s condolences to the bereaved family and assured them that justice would be served.

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“The Nigerian Army, as a reputable organisation anchored on discipline, wishes to express our 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, as the soldier will face the full wrath of the law, and the outcome will be made public”, the statement continued.

The Army also said it had visited the family of the deceased and promised support. The statement added that the Army was working closely with the family and the Ondo State Government to ensure a peaceful resolution.

Source: Punch