The Nigerian Army has launched an investigation into the death of a 13-year-old boy, Timothy Daniel, who was allegedly shot by a soldier in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
The Army said the case has been taken over by the Military Police and assured the public that due process would be followed.
Confirming the development, the Army Public Relations Officer of the 2 Brigade, Mbiokporo, Captain Lawal Mohamed, said the incident was already under investigation.
“The incident has been handled by the Military Police and is already under investigation. Due process would be followed,” Mohamed said.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred as Timothy was returning from a crossover service at Mount Zion Full Gospel Church with his 15-year-old sister, Miracle Daniel, on New Year’s Eve.
An eyewitness, Anthony Akpan, alleged that Miracle briefly crossed the road when the soldier, who was reportedly on guard duty at the residence of the late former clan head, Clement Idemudo—where expatriates are said to reside—followed her and made inappropriate advances.
Akpan said the situation escalated when the teenager resisted the alleged advances.
“When she protested, the soldier became aggressive and threatened her,” he said.
Timothy, who was reportedly waiting nearby, was said to have confronted the soldier over the alleged harassment of his sister, leading to a heated exchange between them.
“The argument escalated, and the soldier allegedly fired his rifle, hitting the boy. He died on the spot,” Akpan added.
Following the shooting, the soldier was said to have retreated into the compound, while other security personnel later arrived at the scene and removed the body.
The incident reportedly triggered panic and unrest in the area, disrupting New Year celebrations. During the ensuing commotion, a vehicle belonging to a former political adviser to the Ikot Abasi Local Government Chairman, Obong Uyai Udoiwod, was also damaged.
Residents have since called for a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident, as tensions remain high in the community.
