Mentally ill man kills soldier in Lagos attack

The Nigerian Army has confirmed that a soldier on duty in the Imota area of Ikorodu, Lagos State, died after being attacked by a mentally unstable individual.

The incident occurred on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at around 4:00 pm while the soldier was deployed for internal security duties.

Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations 81 Division Nigerian Army, Musa Yahaya in a statement on Tuesday, disclosed that the soldier was attempting to de-escalate a chaotic situation when the attacker struck him on the head with a heavy log, causing severe injuries.

“On November 16, 2025, at about 4:00 pm, one of the soldiers deployed for internal security duty in the Imota area of Ikorodu while attempting to de-escalate a chaotic situation was attacked by a mentally unstable individual.

“The attacker struck the soldier on the head with a heavy log, causing severe injury,”

It was stated that other soldiers at the scene quickly brought the situation under control, neutralising the attacker and recovering the soldier’s weapon.

The injured soldier was said to be rushed to Ikorodu General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

“The situation was swiftly brought under control by other soldiers at the scene, who neutralised the attacker and recovered the soldiers’ weapon.

“The injured soldier was evacuated to Ikorodu General Hospital where he was pronounced dead,” the statement added.

The army said the deceased soldier was later buried according to Islamic rites in a ceremony attended by the Acting Commanding Officer and other officers of the unit.

The army has expressed condolences to the family and friends of the late soldier. It was stated that an investigation into the incident has been instituted, and the army urged the public to exercise caution and report suspicious activities. “

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“The 81 Division Nigerian Army has conveyed condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the deceased soldier.

“We pray for the repose of his soul and appreciate his service to the nation,” the statement concluded.