Nigerians have voiced their outrage on social media following the release of a video depicting an altercation between a senior Army officer and a civilian in Abuja. Many users criticized the military for the brutality exhibited by its personnel, underscoring a growing frustration with incidents that reflect a troubling relationship between the military and civilian populations.
Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, the Acting Chief of Army Staff, has ordered an immediate investigation into the incident, but public sentiment remains skeptical.
One user expressed disbelief at the General’s conduct, emphasizing the expected discipline and standards associated with his rank.
Another pointed out that such acts of violence contribute to the erosion of trust in the military, raising concerns about accountability in their interactions with citizens.
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Several commentators noted the clear evidence of the officer’s misconduct, arguing that an investigation seems unnecessary when video proof exists.
They emphasized the emotional toll of such public humiliation and called for concrete actions to be taken. Others highlighted the broader context of violence and mistreatment faced by civilians from various authorities, expressing feelings of enslavement in their own country.
Finally, a sense of disillusionment permeated the discussions, with some expressing hope that the investigation might lead to real change, while others remained doubtful, citing a history of inquiries that yielded little consequence.
