The Nigerian Army has confirmed the death of a soldier on duty in the Imota area of Ikorodu, Lagos State, after he was attacked by a mentally unstable individual.

According to the force in a statement by the acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations 81 Division Nigerian Army, Musa Yahaya on Tuesday, the incident occurred on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at around 4:00 pm while the soldier was deployed for internal security duties.

Yahaya disclosed that the soldier was attempting to de-escalate a chaotic situation when the attacker struck him on the head with a heavy log, causing severe injuries.

“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,”the statement read, adding that,

Other soldiers at the scene quickly brought the situation under control, neutralising the attacker and recovering the soldier’s weapon.

“The injured soldier was rushed to Ikorodu General Hospital, where he was pronounced 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.”

Stating further, the army said the deceased soldier was later buried according to Islamic rites and the ceremony was attended by the Acting Commanding Officer and other officers of the unit.

The army assured that it had launched an investigation into the incident while urging the public to exercise caution 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,” the statement concluded.