Army Arrests Soldier for Allegedly Assaulting Food Vendor Over N2,000 in Benue

A soldier identified as Private Christopher Emmanuel has been taken into custody by the Nigerian Army for allegedly attacking a female food vendor named Doshima in Kula, Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State.

The incident reportedly occurred on May 6, 2025, following a disagreement over a N2,000 debt.

It was formally reported two days later, on May 8. Preliminary investigations suggest that the confrontation started when the vendor demanded payment for food previously bought by the soldier.

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Tensions escalated after Emmanuel allegedly claimed the woman had insulted him during a phone call, prompting him to assault her.

In a statement released by the Headquarters of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), the military confirmed the arrest and condemned the act, describing it as regrettable.

“Authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the altercation,” said Abdullahi Lawal Osabo, the acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations.

He stressed that “The Nigerian Army has zero tolerance for human rights abuses and indiscipline among its personnel. We assure the general public and the victim that justice will be served.”

The Army also urged the public to use the official Human Rights Desk helpline to report misconduct involving its personnel, instead of resorting to social media platforms.

The Ogun State Community, Social Orientation and Safety Corps, also known as So-Safe Corps, has arrested two young men for allegedly breaking into five shops and stealing clothing and other items in the Idiroko area of the state.

The suspects, identified as 24-year-old Daniel Enitan and 23-year-old Adetona Sodeeq, were caught during a routine patrol by officers in the Aferiku community.