The Nigerian Army (NA) has confirmed a tragic incident that occurred on Friday, January 31, 2025, during its Bi-Annual Route March in Yaba, Lagos State. The incident, which took place near Myhoung Barracks, involved a reckless driver who rammed into marching troops, resulting in the death of a soldier and injuries to several others.
In a statement released via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the Headquarters 81 Division Nigerian Army expressed deep sorrow over the loss and assured the public that thorough investigations are underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Bi-Annual Route March is a standard military training exercise designed to enhance operational readiness and physical endurance among troops. Prior to the exercise, the Nigerian Army had extensively publicized the march across multiple media platforms to ensure public awareness and prevent any unforeseen disruptions.
However, despite these measures, tragedy struck when an unidentified driver recklessly plowed through the marching soldiers, leaving a trail of casualties. One soldier lost his life, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
Following the incident, the remains of the deceased soldier have been deposited at the mortuary, while the injured are receiving medical attention at the 68 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Yaba, Lagos.
Meanwhile, the 81 Division Military Police, in collaboration with other security agencies, has launched a comprehensive investigation to ascertain the motive behind the reckless driving and to ensure justice is served.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division NA, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, assuring them of the Army’s unwavering support during this difficult time.
In his statement, Major General Mijinyawa also prayed for the swift recovery of the injured troops and called for calm among the public, urging them to allow the ongoing investigation to take its course.
Despite the devastating loss, he reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to its constitutional mandate of safeguarding lives and property, vowing that the tragedy would not deter the 81 Division from carrying out its duties with unwavering dedication.
The Nigerian Army has reassured the public that necessary precautions will be taken to prevent a recurrence of such an incident, while emphasizing its resolve to uphold discipline and operational excellence.
Signed:
OLABISI OLALEKAN AYENI
Lieutenant Colonel
Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations
81 Division Nigerian Army
31 January 2025
PIONEER NEWS 