Residents in Ilorin, Kwara State, took to the streets after a video capturing a heated altercation between police officers and soldiers surfaced online, sparking widespread concern and debate.
The video, shared on X (formerly Twitter) by @General_Somto, showcased armed soldiers carrying guns and sticks, patrolling the streets in a tense standoff. The soldiers could be heard making threats, seemingly awaiting a direct confrontation with the police. The clip did not provide details on the cause of the dispute between the two security forces.
The viral post was captioned: “Challenge Ilorin, Kwara State on fire, police and soldiers dey fight.” A second video attached to the thread depicted a scene where a few police officers were seen engaging with one of the soldiers, further intensifying the situation.
The incident attracted the attention of numerous residents, who were seen gathering at the scene, shouting, and observing the unfolding confrontation. This led to increased traffic on social media platforms as users debated and criticized the apparent lack of coordination between Nigeria’s security agencies.
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Below are some of the reactions from social media users:
@areghan_g: “In a normal society police is supposed to be the superior force! But alas Nigeria.”
@SolaAdebayo_: “I no wan hear anything, na those people dey at fault. Na dem.”
@DjKaybwoy: “Shebi that police man talk say if you see where they beating a police man we civilians should intervene? Who go intervene in this matter.”
@ndictmedia: “This is Nigeria for you, just imagine this with each other.”
@juby_jack: “It wasn’t this bad when Idris Abdul Kareem sang Nigeria jaga jaga. Damn.”
@Akpekilife1: “Soldiers are supposed to be in their barracks. What are they doing there. E be like say Nigeria don finish completely.”
@karma_jfk: “Automatically citizens don support the soldiers.. cuz they know it’s always police na him get issue.”
@Simon_Lvar: “The extreme lack of coordination and synergy between Nigerian security forces is dangerously scary.”
The footage has continued to elicit mixed reactions as Nigerians express concern over the incident. Many pointed to the dangers posed by such disagreements between the forces tasked with protecting citizens. The absence of clear communication between the police and military in this scenario has left citizens questioning the professionalism of the security agencies.
WATCH VIDEO:
Gunshots As Nigeria Soldiers And Police Clash With Each Other In Ilorin, Kwara State: pic.twitter.com/WFBnbsA8FC
— Somto Okonkwo (@General_Somto) January 24, 2025
This the complete video pic.twitter.com/9PiygI10u8
— Adubi Damilola (@adubi43363) January 24, 2025