Soldier kills trailer driver in Aba

The Abia State Government has voiced profound grief over the tragic killing of Kelechi Ejiofor, a trailer driver, by a soldier at the Uratta Timber Market in Aba. The incident, which has cast a dark shadow of sorrow over the state, has prompted the government to extend its deepest condolences to the bereaved family and friends.

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This heartbreaking development has cast a shadow of grief across the state. The government extends its sincerest condolences to the bereaved family, friends, and all those affected by this painful loss.

In response to this heartbreaking development, the government has initiated dialogue with the military high command. The aim is to guarantee a comprehensive, open, and impartial inquiry into the events that led to the driver's death. The government has firmly assured the public and the victim's family that justice will not only be sought but will be visibly served, with any officer found to be culpable facing the full extent of disciplinary and legal repercussions.

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We wish to assure the family of the deceased and the general public that justice will not only be pursued but will be seen to be done. Any officer found culpable will face the full weight of disciplinary and legal consequences.

While reports suggest the soldier acted with impunity, the Nigerian Army, through its 14 Brigade, has contested claims that the shooting was related to a bribe. The Army asserts the incident occurred around midnight on April 7, 2026, involving a truck from Akwa Ibom State. They claim a warning shot, fired when the driver attempted to flee a road traffic accident, accidentally struck him. The Army has expressed regret and confirmed a joint investigation with the police is ongoing to ascertain the complete facts.

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The driver was involved in a road traffic accident with a motorcycle and attempted to flee the scene, prompting troops to fire a warning shot, which it said accidentally struck him in the leg.