In a recent press briefing, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, confirmed the arrest of a soldier who openly criticized Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for the arrest of a fellow soldier.
The soldier in question had been apprehended for a traffic violation. General Lagbaja emphasized that the soldier's behavior does not reflect the overall conduct of the Nigerian Army. He debunked several viral videos allegedly showing soldiers criticizing the Lagos state governor, clarifying that only one authentic video was investigated, leading to the arrest of the involved soldier.
The COAS also mentioned that the Army is taking measures to educate and guide soldiers on appropriate behavior in the diverse localities where they are deployed.
This development raises questions about the intersection of military discipline, freedom of expression, and the relationship between the military and civilian authorities