In a shocking turn of events, Senator Olamilekan Adeola, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations and a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) representing Ogun West, has raised an alarming accusation against soldiers from the Nigeria Army operating checkpoints around the Ikeja axis of Lagos State. The senator has alleged that his senior aide, Adeniyi Oluwatosin Sanni, was not only robbed but also killed by these soldiers in the early hours of Saturday, August 5, 2023.
Senator Adeola, in a personal statement released yesterday, revealed that the tragic incident occurred when Mr. Sanni was reportedly stopped at a checkpoint around the Ojodu-Berger Area of Lagos. The security agents manning the checkpoint allegedly demanded the documents for the vehicle Mr. Sanni was driving. Through a call to his wife, Mr. Sanni managed to provide all the necessary documents via WhatsApp. Subsequently, his wife received another call from him, indicating that soldiers were still inspecting his vehicle’s paperwork. Tragically, this would be the last communication she would have with her husband.
The lifeless body of Adeniyi Oluwatosin Sanni, bearing multiple bullet wounds, was discovered later at the Toyota Bus Stop area of Oshodi, close to a military barracks. These circumstances have led Senator Adeola to voice suspicions that his aide’s murder was orchestrated by a syndicate of soldiers operating under the newly deployed Commander of 9 Brigade, Ikeja Cantonment of the Nigeria Army, Brigadier General Nsikan John Edet. The soldiers allegedly carried out their crimes by setting up checkpoints and targeting lone occupants of vehicles for robbery.
A statement released in Abuja by Senator Adeola provided an update on the ongoing investigation into the murder and armed robbery. The senator expressed firm belief, supported by the available evidence, that the soldiers involved must be held accountable for their alleged actions. He further implored Major General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, to ensure the identification and prosecution of the perpetrators to ensure justice for the deceased.
Senator Adeola raised a larger concern, suggesting that there is a discernible pattern of killings and armed robberies associated with soldiers operating late-night checkpoints in the Ikeja area. He condemned such actions and called on the Nigerian Army to take decisive measures against any rogue elements within its ranks, emphasizing that the military cannot be seen as complicit in criminal activities.
As investigations continue, the black Toyota Camry belonging to Mr. Sanni, along with his mobile phones and other valuable possessions, remain missing. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, sparking renewed conversations about the security measures enforced by the Nigerian Army and the need to address any potential misconduct within its ranks.
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