Private Emmanuel, an officer of the Nigerian Army, has been arrested for reportedly assaulting a food seller over an unpaid bill.
The army stated that the individuals would remain under its custody as the inquiry proceeded in a statement issued by Captain Abulahi Lawal Osabo, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 401 Special Forces Brigade, Makurdi.
“The Headquarters Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) has taken cognisance of an incident involving Private Christopher Emmanuel and a female vendor, Doshima, which occurred on 6 May 2025 but was reported on 8 May 2025, in Kula, Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State.
“According to reports, the incident may have stemmed from a dispute over an unpaid debt, with allegations suggesting that the soldier claimed the woman insulted him during a phone conversation.
“It is further alleged that this confrontation may have escalated into a physical altercation, which is now under thorough investigation.
“Private Christopher Emmanuel is currently in custody, and a thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident,” he said.
According to the report, the Nigerian Army will take disciplinary action in response to the investigation’s findings and has zero tolerance for violations of human rights.
It gave the victim and the general public the assurance that justice would be carried out in accordance with the high standards of the military.
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“Members of the public are advised to report any instances of abuse by Nigerian Army personnel to the Human Rights Desk helpline instead of running to the social media in the first instance.
“All reports of infractions by Nigerian Army personnel are viewed seriously, investigated and sanctions applied where personnel are found culpable,” it stated.
