The Nigerian Army has refuted reports circulating on social media claiming that one of its personnel shot a truck driver along Uratta Expressway in Aba over ₦1,000.
In a statement issued by the 14 Brigade Nigerian Army, the allegation was described as completely false and inconsistent with the values and conduct expected of Army personnel.
The statement, signed by Captain Muyiwa Ayara on behalf of the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, explained that the incident occurred around midnight on April 7, 2026, and involved a truck with registration number 7865 traveling from Akwa Ibom State to Abia State.
According to the Brigade, the truck was involved in a road traffic accident at the Ogbor Hill area of Aba, colliding with a motorcycle carrying two civilians. Following the incident, the driver reportedly attempted to flee the scene.
Troops of the 144 Battalion (Rear), stationed near the flyover, were alerted by another civilian vehicle that had begun pursuing the fleeing truck. The soldiers then joined the pursuit.
“During the pursuit, the truck failed to stop, and one of the soldiers deployed around Timber Market fired a warning shot in an attempt to stop the suspect who was approaching their location.
“Unfortunately, the bullet accidentally hit the truck driver, Mr Kelechi Ejofod, on the leg. The driver was immediately evacuated to Rapha Hospital for treatment, while the case was reported to the Nigerian Police at Uratta,” Captain Ayara said.
The Nigerian Army expressed regret over the incident, describing it as unfortunate, and reiterated its commitment to maintaining professionalism and discipline.
It also urged members of the public to disregard the circulating misinformation, adding that a joint investigation with the Nigeria Police is currently underway to establish the full details surrounding the event.
