Quick Summary:
IkoroduSoldierIncident2025 as the Nigerian Army confirms the death of a soldier attacked by a mentally unstable man in Ikorodu, Lagos, dismissing claims that the soldier was shot.
The 81 Division of the Nigerian Army has confirmed the death of a soldier who was attacked by a mentally unstable man on Sunday, November 16, 2025, in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State.
A viral video circulating on social media showed the lifeless body of the soldier lying beside the attacker, who appeared in torn clothing. Voices in the footage claimed that the assailant had shot the soldier with his rifle.
However, the Army has dismissed those claims, clarifying that the soldier was not shot.
Official Statement from the Army
In a statement issued by Lt. Col. Musa Yahaya, the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, the Army explained that the soldier, who was deployed for internal security operations in the Imota axis of Ikorodu, was struck on the head with a heavy log by the attacker.
“Without prejudice to the ongoing investigation into the incident, it is necessary to provide preliminary information on the circumstances surrounding the incident,” the statement read.
“On November 16, 2025, about 4 p.m., one of the soldiers deployed for internal security duty in the Imota area of Ikorodu, while attempting to de-escalate a chaotic situation, was attacked by a mentally unstable individual. The attacker struck the soldier on the head with a heavy log, causing severe injury.”
Situation Contained and Investigation Ongoing
Lt. Col. Yahaya confirmed that the situation was quickly brought under control by other soldiers at the scene.
“The situation was brought under control by other soldiers at the scene, who neutralised the attacker and recovered the soldier’s body,” he said.
The Army assured the public that investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident and to ensure that appropriate actions are taken.