NAF Detains Personnel, Probes Death of Lagos Bus Driver

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has taken into custody all personnel suspected of involvement in the death of a commercial bus driver, Joseph Okpe, who died after an alleged assault by military officers along the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway in Lagos.

Air Force spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame confirmed that both civil and military authorities have launched active investigations into the incident. He expressed deep sadness over the loss of life, stating that the NAF has extended condolences and visited the deceased’s family to offer support.

According to legal documents and eyewitness accounts, the incident occurred on May 9 following a minor traffic dispute involving a military coaster bus. The vehicle sustained minimal damage, estimated at less than ₦7,000, but the occupants reportedly demanded ₦100,000 in compensation from the 43-year-old driver.

Witnesses stated that the personnel repeatedly assaulted Okpe until nearby drivers and onlookers intervened. Passersby managed to raise ₦50,000 to pay the officers to halt the attack.

A medical report indicated that Okpe suffered a severe head injury during the altercation. He was rushed to a clinic in Mushin after being turned away by several other medical facilities, where he was pronounced dead a few hours later. Okpe is survived by his wife and three young children.

Air Commodore Ejodame emphasized that the military remains committed to due process, accountability, and the rule of law, adding that further findings will be made public once the joint investigations conclude.