The Nigerian Army has confirmed that it has begun disciplinary action against one of its soldiers accused of causing the death of a commercial bus driver near a military checkpoint at Akunnu, in Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State. The tragic incident occurred on Sunday, October 13, 2025, and has since sparked outrage among residents and commuters who ply the busy Akure–Abuja route.
According to eyewitnesses, the driver’s vehicle reportedly broke down near the military checkpoint, prompting some of his passengers to demand a refund of their transport fares. In an attempt to resolve the situation, one of the passengers called on a soldier stationed at the checkpoint to intervene.
However, what began as a simple mediation quickly escalated, as the soldier allegedly acted in what authorities later described as an “unprofessional and uncouth manner.” The confrontation soon turned physical, resulting in serious injuries to the driver.
The Headquarters of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Akure, has since confirmed that the soldier’s conduct was a violation of the Army’s Rules of Engagement and Code of Conduct. In an official statement, the military acknowledged that his behavior was unacceptable and inconsistent with the discipline expected of Nigerian soldiers. The Army noted that the officer involved acted without authorization and would face internal disciplinary measures to determine his culpability.
Following the altercation, the Brigade immediately evacuated the injured driver to a nearby hospital, where it reportedly covered all medical expenses. Despite the prompt intervention, the driver’s condition deteriorated, prompting his referral to the Ondo State Specialist Hospital, Akure, and later to the Federal Medical Centre, Owo. Sadly, he succumbed to his injuries on Monday, October 14, 2025. The Army said it deeply regrets the loss and has pledged to ensure justice is served.
In a statement signed by Major Njoka Irabor, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, the 32 Artillery Brigade expressed its condolences to the bereaved family and the transport workers’ union.
“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 in part.
The Army has since visited the family of the deceased driver and met with leaders of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Ondo State. During the visit, the Brigade pledged to cover the burial expenses and provide welfare support to the victim’s family.
It also assured that the late driver’s children would continue their education without disruption, adding that a liaison officer has been assigned to maintain ongoing communication with the bereaved family until all commitments are fulfilled.
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