The Nigerian Army’s 7 Division in Maiduguri has verified the apprehension of a soldier over accusations of fatally shooting a truck driver at a checkpoint along the Maiduguri – Dikwa- Gamboru road.
The incident occurred as a result of a disagreement between the soldier and the truck driver at the checkpoint.
Reports state that this incident, which took place on Boxing Day, has prompted a complete boycott of the bustling border road by commercial drivers in protest, leaving numerous travelers stranded.
In a statement confirming the arrest on Thursday, Lt. Col. A.Y. Jingina, the 7 Division Public Relations Officer, mentioned that the army initiated an investigation after receiving a complaint from the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).
“Furthermore, engagement has been established with NURTW towards a peaceful resolution of the incident.”
“The Division has assured both the family of the deceased and the NURTW of its commitment to ensure that justice is served to the family and no stone would be left unturned in this regard.”
“In the Division’s effort towards ensuring that the family of the victim gets justice, the soldier in question has been arrested, and an investigation has commenced.”
“It’s also worthy to mention that the Division does not tolerate any form of unprofessional conduct from any personnel as we operate within the ambit of the law.”
“The Division wishes to once again reassure the members of the general public that we will remain resolute and professional in the joint effort to tackle insecurity in Borno State,” Jingina said.
Responding to the incident, the Borno Government, represented by the Commissioner of Information and Internal Security, Prof. Usman Tar, stated that it is actively pursuing the matter to ensure that justice is served.
“The Government is following up this matter, and will take all necessary measures to ensure that the matter is properly investigated and suspects are prosecuted. Anyone who is found guilty will face the full wrath of the law.
“Meanwhile, the Borno State Government urges the general public and, in particular, members of the Road Transport Workers Union, to maintain patience and decorum while the matter is handled according to the law,” Tar pleaded.