A tragic incident sent shockwaves through the Agbowa community along the Ikorodu Expressway in Lagos State on Monday, when a mentally unstable man reportedly snatched a rifle from a soldier at a military checkpoint and shot the officer dead.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos and disbelief at Adeogun bridge, where the fatal shooting occurred in broad daylight. According to one local police source, “An insane man snatched a military man’s rifle and shot him dead at a checkpoint. It happened at Adeogun bridge in Agbowa,” emphasizing the distress gripping both residents and law enforcement following the tragic event.
The suspect, whose identity remains unconfirmed as at press time, was reportedly known in the vicinity for erratic behavior, yet the speed and violence of his act stunned all present.Accounts from residents stated that the soldier was stationed with his colleagues at the checkpoint, a regular site for security and vehicle checks in an area facing increased safety concerns. The attacker allegedly approached the checkpoint in an agitated state. Preliminary investigations revealed that, in a brief moment, the man managed to overpower the soldier and take possession of his AK-47 rifle before discharging it at close range, resulting in the soldier’s immediate death.
The larger Agbowa community was thrown into mourning and panic as the news spread. “We just couldn’t believe our eyes. People started running, even vehicles stopped moving instantly. Soldiers later surrounded the place, and everyone stayed far back,” said one witness who preferred to remain anonymous due to security concerns.
Calls placed to the Lagos State Police Command spokesperson, Abimbola Adebisi, were not returned at the time of filing this report, leaving many questions about the official response and the fate of the attacker.Military authorities have neither confirmed nor denied the identity of the slain soldier. Security sources explained that such incidents underscore the need for increased awareness and support around mental health issues, especially in social environments frequented by vulnerable persons.
The episode comes on the heels of renewed efforts by the Nigerian Armed Forces to enhance mental health sensitization for service personnel in high-risk zones. A recent report by SaharaReporters noted, “The Armed Forces of Nigeria has initiated its 2025 First Bi-Annual Sensitisation Training focused on Stress Management, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and Emotional Intelligence for troops deployed in active combat zones,” highlighting the urgency of psychological health both inside and outside Nigeria’s security forces.
As investigations continue, the Agbowa community seeks answers and stronger security measures to prevent future tragedies of this nature. The soldier’s death has served as a somber reminder of the unforeseen risks faced by security personnel on duty and the broader issue of mental health challenges in Nigerian society.
