A deadly clash between a soldier and a police officer in Agyaragu, Obi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, has led to multiple casualties.
According to reports, the confrontation escalated into violence, resulting in the deaths of at least a soldier and a civilian. Eyewitness accounts suggest that four civilians were shot dead by police officers following the initial clash.
The incident began with an altercation between the soldier and the police officer at Agyaragu market. The soldier was reportedly stabbed to death, prompting his relatives to attack a police station and set it ablaze.
The police responded by firing on the protesters, killing one and injuring three others. The injured civilians are currently receiving medical treatment.
The Nasarawa State Police Command has confirmed the death of the soldier and one civilian, while acknowledging that others were injured during the incident.
Speaking to SaharaReporters on Monday morning, DSP Ramhan Nansel, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in Nasarawa State, said: “The soldier is confirmed dead. The police shot the civilians because they attacked the police station and set it ablaze. But it is only one of them that died. Others were rushed to the hospital, and are currently receiving treatment.
“Following an investigation into a reported case of Motorcycle theft, on 3/11/2024 at about 1230hrs, a suspect was arrested by a Police Operative in collaboration with a Police Special Constabulary attached to Jenkwe Division, Obi Local Government Area at Agyaragu Market.
“While conveying the suspect to the Police Station, a soldier who was said to be serving in Borno but came home on Pass attacked the Police operatives in a bid to prevent the operatives from effecting the arrest.
“Consequently, the soldier brought out a knife and stabbed the Police Special Constabulary. In self-defense, the soldier was overpowered, and his knife was used against him. They both sustained varying degree of injuries, and the wounded soldier was subsequently confirmed dead.
“In view of the foregoing, some youths mobilized and stormed the police station, setting it ablaze.
“Police responded and fatally injured three of the attackers where one was later confirmed dead.
“Upon receipt of the information, the Commissioner of Police, CP Umar Shehu Nadada psc, mni immediately visited the scene alongside Military personnel from Operation whirl stroke, 177 Guards Battalion and 22 Quick Response Unit where he swiftly ordered deployment of a unit of Police Mobile Force, a cell of Counter Terrorist Unit and Tactical units to restore peace in the area.
“Normalcy has been restored, and investigation is ongoing as the Commissioner orders manhunt of perpetrators.”
