Ogona Anita
The Abia State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of a trailer driver, Kelechi Ejiofor, who was killed following a shooting incident involving a soldier at the Uratta Timber Market in Aba.
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kalu, the government described the incident as heartbreaking and extended condolences to the bereaved family, friends and all those affected by the loss.
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,” the statement partly read.
The government said it had commenced engagement with the military high command to ensure a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
It assured the public that justice would be pursued, stressing that any officer found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary and legal consequences.
“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,” the statement added.
The state government also urged residents to remain calm, law-abiding and peaceful as efforts intensify to unravel the circumstances of the incident, reaffirming its commitment to the protection of lives and property, the rule of law and the rights of citizens.
Reports indicated that Ejiofor died from gunshot wounds after being shot by a soldier, who allegedly acted with impunity following the incident.
However, the Nigerian Army, through the 14 Brigade, denied claims that the shooting was linked to a ₦1,000 bribe.
In a statement signed by Captain Muyiwa Ayara for the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 14 Brigade Ohafia, the military said the incident occurred around midnight on April 7, 2026, involving a truck travelling from Akwa Ibom State to Abia State.
According to the Army, 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.
The Army expressed regret over the incident and assured the public that a joint investigation with the police was ongoing to establish the full facts surrounding the case.
