The Nigerian Army says it has launched disciplinary proceedings against a soldier accused of involvement in the death of a commercial bus driver at Akunnu in Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The incident, which occurred on Sunday, October 13, 2025, involved a commercial driver en route from Akure to Abuja whose vehicle reportedly broke down near a military checkpoint at Akunu.
According to military sources, the situation escalated when some passengers demanded a refund of their fares. One of the passengers sought help from a soldier at the checkpoint to intervene. The soldier, however, acted in an “unprofessional and uncouth” manner, leading to a confrontation that resulted in physical contact with the driver.
The Headquarters of 32 Artillery Brigade, Akure, said in a statement that the soldier’s conduct was “contrary to the Rules of Engagement and Code of Conduct guiding his deployment.”
Upon learning of the incident, the Brigade promptly evacuated the injured driver to a nearby hospital, covered all medical expenses, and assigned an officer to oversee his treatment. The driver was later referred to the Ondo State Specialist Hospital, Akure, and subsequently to the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, where he unfortunately died on Monday, October 14, 2025.
In a statement signed by Major Njoka Irabor, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, the Brigade expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family and assured them of justice.
“The Nigerian Army, as a reputable institution anchored on discipline, deeply regrets the unfortunate incident. The soldier involved will face the full weight of the law, and the outcome of the disciplinary process will be made public,” the statement read.
The Brigade has since visited the family of the deceased as well as the leadership of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Ondo State, pledging to cover burial expenses and provide welfare support for the family.
The Army also vowed to ensure the late driver’s children continue their education without disruption, noting that a liaison officer has been assigned to maintain communication with the family.
