The Nigerian Army has confirmed the death of a soldier who was attacked by a mentally unstable man while on duty in the Imota area of Ikorodu, Lagos State.
In a statement on Tuesday, Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 81 Division, Musa Yahaya, said the soldier was trying to calm a chaotic situation when the attacker struck him on the head with a heavy log, inflicting severe injuries.
The incident, which occurred on Sunday, November 16, 2025, around 4:00 pm, happened while the soldier was deployed for internal security operations.
“On November 16, 2025, at about 4:00 pm, 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.”
According to the army, troops at the scene quickly intervened, neutralising the attacker and recovering the soldier’s weapon.
The wounded soldier was rushed to Ikorodu General Hospital, where he was confirmed dead.
“The situation was swiftly brought under control by other soldiers at the scene, who neutralised the attacker and recovered the soldiers’ weapon.
“The injured soldier was evacuated to Ikorodu General Hospital where he was pronounced dead,” the statement added.
The army said the late soldier has been buried according to Islamic rites in a ceremony attended by the Acting Commanding Officer and other officers of his unit.
It added that an investigation has begun, urging members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
“The 81 Division Nigerian Army has conveyed condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the deceased soldier.
“We pray for the repose of his soul and appreciate his service to the nation.”