By Dare Akogun
The Nigerian Army has advised truck drivers and other road users to comply with directives from military personnel conducting stop-and-search operations.
This admonition follows a recent clash between the military and truck drivers in the Oko Olowo area of Ilorin, Kwara State.
Brigade Commander 22 Armoured Brigade, Sobi Cantonment, Ilorin, Brigadier General Olufemi Daniel Williams, while speaking with newsmen in his office, emphasized that all military operations are executed in accordance with directives from the Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen Taoreed Lagbaja to combat crime and criminality.
He assured the public that the army conducts its operations within established standards, keeping civilians’ safety and rights in mind.
Addressing the Oko Olowo incident, General Williams explained that a truck driver had evaded arrest at the first checkpoint and attempted to run through a second checkpoint, prompting soldiers to open fire.
“Once you see a military checkpoint, please stop. The military cannot be on the road conducting stop-and-search without any reason,” he said.
The Brigade Commander confirmed that the injured truck driver is recuperating in the hospital, with the Army covering all medical expenses.
He reiterated that the incident would not deter the army from fulfilling its constitutional duties to protect the nation’s territorial integrity.
“The Army is committed to maintaining peace and security, and we urge all citizens to cooperate with our officers to ensure their safety and the safety of the nation,” General Williams added.
