By Stephen Simon
A commercial driver in Lagos has reportedly died after he was allegedly assaulted by officers of the Nigerian Air Force following a road accident involving the parties.
The incident, which has sparked public outrage, reportedly occurred after the driver was involved in a minor collision with a vehicle conveying some Air Force personnel on one of Lagos’ major highways.
Eyewitnesses said what began as a routine traffic accident escalated into a violent confrontation when the officers allegedly accused the driver of damaging their vehicle and demanded compensation.
According to accounts from persons at the scene, the driver informed the officers that he could not immediately provide the amount being demanded, leading to a heated exchange.
The disagreement reportedly degenerated into a physical assault, with the officers allegedly attacking the driver and inflicting serious injuries on him.
Witnesses said several bystanders and fellow commercial drivers attempted to intervene and calm tensions, while efforts were made to resolve the dispute before the officers eventually left the scene.
The victim was subsequently rushed for medical treatment after his condition deteriorated. However, despite efforts by healthcare personnel to save his life, he was later confirmed dead from injuries allegedly sustained during the assault.
The incident has since been reported to the police, who are said to have commenced investigations into the circumstances surrounding the driver’s death and the involvement of the Air Force personnel.
The development has triggered widespread condemnation, with many Nigerians calling for a thorough investigation and accountability for those found culpable.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Nigerian Air Force nor the Lagos State Police Command had issued an official statement on the incident.
