BREAKING: Mentally Unstable Man Snatches Soldier’s AK-47 at Lagos Checkpoint, Shoots Him Dead
BREAKING: Mentally Unstable Man Snatches Soldier’s AK-47 at Lagos Checkpoint, Shoots Him Dead
A tragic and deeply unsettling incident unfolded on Monday in Lagos State, leaving residents of the Agbowa–Ikorodu axis in shock and mourning. A mentally unstable man reportedly overpowered a soldier at a military checkpoint, seized his AK-47 rifle, and fatally shot him.
According to security sources, the incident occurred at the Adeogun Bridge checkpoint in the Agbowa community, situated along the Ikorodu Expressway. Eyewitnesses say the event happened suddenly, with many motorists and passers-by fleeing the scene for safety as panic spread.
Attempts to reach the Lagos State Police Command spokesperson, Abimbola Adebisi, for official clarification were unsuccessful, as calls were not answered nor returned at the time of filing this report.
A Second Tragedy Hits the Military
This shocking event follows another devastating loss within the Nigerian military, as earlier reported by SaharaReporters. Brigadier General M. Uba, a top-ranking officer and commander, was killed by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in Borno State.
General Uba was reportedly intercepted along the Damboa–Biu axis shortly after participating in a successful joint air-ground offensive against insurgents. He had communicated with his superiors that he was safe and regrouping, a call that may have inadvertently exposed his coordinates to enemy surveillance.
He was captured alive, interrogated briefly by the terrorists, and then executed.
This double tragedy—one caused by insurgency and another by a mentally unstable civilian—has raised renewed concerns about security vulnerabilities, personnel safety, mental health issues within communities, and the risks inherent in open checkpoint operations.
Editorial Reflection
These incidents highlight the unpredictable and evolving nature of security challenges in Nigeria. From the sophisticated tracking tactics of insurgents in the North-East to the spontaneous dangers posed by mentally unstable individuals in civilian areas, the nation’s security architecture continues to face complex, multi-layered threats.
There is a growing need for stronger mental health monitoring within communities, improved checkpoint protocols, and enhanced tactical communication strategies to protect personnel in the line of duty.
The sacrifices of the fallen officers stand as a solemn reminder that those who serve at the front lines—whether in Lagos or Borno—remain exposed to danger in ways many civilians may never fully comprehend.
As the nation processes these losses, it becomes even more critical for authorities to investigate the circumstances thoroughly, strengthen preventive measures, and ensure that the families of the deceased receive justice, clarity, and support.
Source: Sahara Reporters
Author: Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
Publisher: Global Egberi Media International
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