By Yekini Jimoh in Lokoja
There was gridlock yesterday along Abuja-Lokoja highway following the allegedly killing of an articulated vehicle driver by some Soldiers.
Most vehicles coming from the north and heading to the south were held for almost five hours as a result of the shooting as drivers of the trailers blocked the road in protest.
An eye witness disclosed to THISDAY that the incident occurred before Jamata Bridge, Koton-Karfi when a trailer carrying cows from Abuja axis was stopped by the Solders at the check point.
The sources further disclosed that there was an argument between one of the Soldiers and the driver which later resulted in physical combat.
The eye witness said one of the Soldiers opened fire on the driver and killed him instantly. The action of the Military men angered other drivers who witnessed the incident as they blocked the road with their trailers. It was further gathered that the Military men on the check point after the incident took their vehicle and escaped to avoid the anger of the drivers.
Meanwhile the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello has described the incident as unfortunate.
His position was contained in Press Statement issued by the Director General Media and Publicity to the Governor, Mr. Kingsley Fanwo.
“The unfortunate incident is being investigated by the relevant authorities. Let us all wait for the reports of the investigations. But one thing is clear:
“The Kogi State Government will ensure protection of lives and property as every life is important to government.
“We urge the people of the area to remain calm and not take laws into their hands as government will get to the root of the matter.
“Governor Yahaya Bello is committed to protecting the lives and property of all Kogites and commuters passing through the State,” the statement said.
The governor therefor urged residents of Kotonkarfe to refrain from jungle justice as government had enough machinery for investigations and justice dispensation.
