Nigerian Army Closes Abuja’s Banex Plaza Following Assault on Soldiers
In a controversial move, the Nigerian Army has announced the closure of Banex Plaza in Abuja, citing a recent incident where soldiers were attacked by a mob. This decision has sparked debates about the army’s involvement in civilian matters.
Reports from First Class Gists revealed that the altercation began when a mob, believed to be employees at the plaza, assaulted two soldiers over a dispute related to the sale of a mobile phone.
Army spokesperson Onyema Nwachukwu stated that the closure was a result of an agreement with the plaza’s management to help identify those responsible for the attack on the soldiers. He mentioned that the temporary shutdown aims to facilitate the investigation and apprehension of the perpetrators.
Colonel Nwachukwu explained, “In response to this unfortunate incident, a meeting was convened with the management of Banex Plaza to identify and apprehend the perpetrators of this heinous act by temporarily shutting down activities in the plaza.”
A viral video circulating on social media shows the soldiers being attacked while attempting to flee from their assailants. In retaliation, a group of soldiers reportedly stormed the plaza, leading to further assaults on civilians.
First Class Gists also reported that soldiers blocked the entrance to the plaza, effectively halting business activities. Typically, such incidents would be handled by the police, who would investigate and prosecute those involved. Civil authorities, like the Abuja administration or the Abuja Municipal Area Council, would usually oversee the shutdown.
However, the army has taken the lead in this case, citing the need to prevent further assaults on their personnel, referencing a recent fatal attack on soldiers in Okuama, Delta State.
Colonel Nwachukwu stated, “This investigation ultimately aims at ensuring the security of the Federal Capital Territory and to prevent such unwarranted attacks on our personnel and other security operatives, as has been observed in other areas, such as the unfortunate attack in Okuama.”
Further details on this situation are expected to follow.
