Calm has returned to the Odogunyan and Ogijo axis in Ikorodu area after riotous soldiers attacked a police station and razed two patrol vans following the death of their colleague identified as Corporal Saheed. In a statement Thursday spokesman for the 81 division Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni disclosed that trouble started when Corporal Saheed attached to the Army 174 Battalion in Odogunyan, Ikorodu asked the policeman who was in civilian clothes to identify himself, but rather than comply, the police engagement the deceased soldier in an argument which resulted into a fight. “The victim confronted the suspect who was not properly dressed and standing very close to the Patrol Vehicle of Operation MESA to confirm his identity. This led to an argument and subsequently, the unfortunate incident. “The soldier was immediately rushed to Lagos State Polytechnic Hospital, Odogunyan, for medical attention but he was declared dead on arrival at the hospital. “The remains of the soldier have been moved to 174 Battalion Medical Centre in Ikorodu. The suspect has also since been arrested and kept in a military custody for his safety and subsequent hand over to Nigeria Police for prosecution. “The mob who witnessed the unfortunate incident took advantage of this and attacked the Police Station in the community. “Troops have been deployed around the vicinity of all police stations in Ikorodu general area to prevent breakdown of law and order.”
On Wednesday the Odogunyan and Ogijo axis was at boiling point as the soldiers from the Odogunyan barracks avenged the death of their colleague. Residents scampered for safety in order not to be caught in the crossfire. A relative of the deceased soldier told SaharaReporters in an interview: “He just got married a few months ago. I still spoke with him recently and told him to take care of his wife. It’s just so sad. “He was so jovial and caring. He was staying in Gbagada and was loved by many people. The killer police officer must be prosecuted accordingly.”
