The headquarters of the 81st Division of the Nigerian Army (NA) hereby announces the initiation of an investigation into the reported killing of Mr. Lawal, an innocent civilian driver. The incident allegedly occurred on August 17, 2023, involving individuals clad in military attire.
In an official statement, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 81st Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, emphasized that the available information regarding the incident remains limited. However, underscoring the organization’s sense of responsibility, the 81st Division deems it imperative to bring this occurrence to the public’s attention. The Division is actively working to identify the individuals allegedly responsible for the incident, suspected to be soldiers, with the intent of bringing them to justice if their military affiliation is confirmed.
Lieutenant Colonel Ayeni revealed that the Division is currently collaborating with the Lagos State Command of the Nigerian Police to comprehensively investigate the identities of the alleged suspects and the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event. In the event that the suspects are verified as active-duty soldiers, they will face the full extent of both military and civilian legal consequences.
Ayeni expressed that throughout the investigation process, the 81st Division headquarters urges patience from the deceased’s family, encouraging them to await the investigation’s conclusion. Disciplinary measures will be taken against anyone found culpable. He emphasized the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of conduct for its personnel, denouncing any engagement in criminal activities. Consequently, the military will not permit this particular allegation to remain unresolved.
Major General MT Usman, the General Officer Commanding the 81st Division NA, expressed condolences to the victim’s family and assured them that justice would be rigorously pursued. He pledged that those responsible for the demise of their loved one would not evade punishment.
