Nigerian Army soldiers from the 81st Division successfully prevented Mrs. Francesca Spark from committing suicide by jumping into the Lagos Lagoon near the 81st Division Officers’ Mess in Marina, Lagos.
In a statement released on Monday, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, provided this information.
He said, “The troops of 65 Battalion NA deployed at the Officers’ Mess, who sighted Mrs Spark quickly used their military riverine skills and ingenuity to rescue her.”
“She was given first aid and stabilized by the battalion medical team.”
“After stabilization, the family was contacted and she was handed over to her husband, one Mr Spark Oghene Ovie residing at Awoyaya Lagos.”
“The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division NA, Major General Muhammed Takuti Usman has commended the soldiers for being observant, and for their ingenuity, courage, and gallantry.”
“The GOC said he is pleased that soldiers brought their training in disaster management to bear in such a critical situation that could have claimed the life of a fellow citizen.”
“Maj Gen Usman who said such an operation is a military operation other than war conducted during emergencies or natural disasters affirmed that troops have been trained to support leading agencies during emergencies.”
“He assured residents of the NA’s commitment to protect them and their properties even during emergencies.”