By OLADAPO UDOM

The Headquarters 81 Division, Nigerian Army, has confirmed the death of a soldier who was attacked by a mentally unstable individual in the Imota area of Ikorodu, Lagos State.

The confirmation is contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Division’s spokesman, Lt.-Col. Musa Yahaya.

He said the incident occurred on Nov. 16 when the soldier, while attempting to de-escalate a chaotic situation, was attacked by the assailant.

According to Yahaya, the attacker struck the soldier on the head with a heavy log, inflicting severe injuries.

“Other soldiers at the scene quickly intervened, neutralised the attacker and recovered the soldier’s weapon.

“The wounded soldier was immediately evacuated to the Ikorodu General Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.”

Yahaya said the deceased had been buried according to Islamic rites, with the Acting Commanding Officer and other officers of the unit in attendance.

“The 81 Division extended its condolences to the soldier’s family, friends and colleagues, praying for the repose of his soul and acknowledging his service to the nation.”

Yahaya added that an investigation into the incident had been instituted.

He urged members of the public to exercise caution and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.

He also appealed for responsible reporting of the incident while the investigation was ongoing. (NAN, excluding headline)