ABUJA, Nigeria – The Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Taoreed Lagbaja, has confirmed the arrest of a Nigerian soldier who publicly criticized Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in a widely circulated video.
This development follows an incident where the soldier was caught driving against traffic, a violation that drew the governor’s ire.
In a statement addressing the issue on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, Lt General Lagbaja emphasised that the soldier’s behaviour does not reflect the values and conduct of the Nigerian Army.
The army chief also noted that several online videos, purportedly showing soldiers criticizing Governor Sanwo-Olu, were deemed fake.
However, the army chief confirmed that one authentic video had been thoroughly investigated, leading to the arrest of the involved soldier.
The incident that sparked this controversy occurred on January 2, when Governor Sanwo-Olu ordered the arrest of a soldier and some commercial motorcyclists for violating traffic rules on the Lagos-Badagry expressway.
The governor’s directive came during his return from an inauguration event at the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, sponsored by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.
Following the arrest, a video surfaced on January 4, featuring an unidentified soldier who vocally criticized Governor Sanwo-Olu.
In the video, the soldier condemned the governor for his remarks and actions, which he perceived as disrespectful to the military, especially in front of civilians.
Lagbaja mentioned that the Nigerian Army is taking proactive steps to educate its personnel on appropriate conduct in different localities where they are deployed.
This move is likely an effort to prevent future incidents that could strain civil-military relations and uphold the discipline and decorum expected of the armed forces.
The arrest of the soldier marks a significant response from the Nigerian Army to maintain discipline within its ranks and address any actions that might bring disrepute to the institution.
