A soldier from the 3rd Division of the Nigerian Army, Rukuba Barracks in Jos,Plateau State 1has reportedly stabbed a tricycle operator, Abdullahi Muhammad, leading to his death.
The Chairman, Gan Allah Fulani Development Association (GAFDAN), Garba Abdullahi, disclosed the incident to journalists in Jos.
According to Abdullahi, the victim, a 26-year-old herder and tricycle rider, was attacked at Gebu-Bassa, near the barracks’ gate, and described the act as unjustifiable and called on the division’s leadership to ensure justice is served.
Providing details, the GAFDAN chairman explained that the incident happened around 7:00 PM. The deceased had stopped to purchase an item near the barracks’ gate.
He stated, “After the deceased bought what he intended to buy, he entered his tricycle, and while reversing, he mistakenly stepped on the soldier’s leg. Realising what had happened, he got out of the tricycle and apologised, but despite this, the soldier, who was in mufti, slapped him, and an altercation ensued.
“Before long, the soldier pulled out his jackknife and stabbed the deceased in the chest. After being taken to the clinic in the barracks, he was confirmed dead. The soldier was immediately arrested by his colleagues, who initially thought he was a civilian but later discovered he was a soldier.”
The deceased’s father, Alhaji Muhammad, appealed to the Nigerian Army leadership to ensure justice is done for his son.
The spokesman of the 3rd Division, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, confirmed the occurrence.
Danja further commented on the incident, saying:
“The sad incident occurred following an altercation between the deceased and a soldier from one of our battalions. Preliminary reports indicate that the incident escalated, resulting in Mr. Abdullahi sustaining injuries from a knife.
“Despite all efforts through our medical facilities, he succumbed to the injuries, and our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time. In response to this tragic incident, Headquarters 3 Division has arrested the soldier involved and ordered an investigation to unravel the root cause of the incident. We understand the gravity of this matter and assure the general public that we are committed to transparency and accountability.
“Should the investigation find any wrongdoing on the part of the soldier, he will face disciplinary action in accordance with the extant laws governing the conduct of personnel within the armed forces. The Headquarters 3 Division remains resolute in our duty to uphold the law and ensure that justice is served. We encourage the public to remain calm as we carry out this investigation.”