Atragic altercation in Jalingo, the capital of Taraba State, has resulted in the death of a police constable, reportedly stabbed to death by a soldier identified as Dauda Dedan, a newly recruited soldier.

The incident occurred around 9:00 p.m. on Monday in the Mayo-Goyi area of the state, according to the police, reigniting concerns over rising tensions and violence involving security personnel across Nigeria.

The suspect was said to have stabbed the police officer identified as Constable Aaron John, attached to the Taraba State Police Command, during a confrontation sparked by a local dispute.

Confirming the incident to journalists on Wednesday, the Public Relations Officer of the command, James Lashen, explained that the late officer was responding to a distress call from residents when he encountered the soldier.

Lashen said the police officer was alerted by some residents of the area over a misunderstanding between them and the soldier, but got caught in the middle of the chaos, which led to the soldier stabbing him.

According to the police spokesperson, the suspect fled the scene immediately after stabbing the police officer.

“We have reported the matter to 6 Brigade headquarters of the Nigerian Army, and we have been given full assurances of tracking down the fugitive soldier to face the full wrath of the law,” Lashen said, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

“Both the army and the police are working hand in hand. We have gotten to the house of the soldier, we would ensure he is arrested and is brought to book accordingly,” Lashen added.

Lashen said the Nigerian Army has since launched an investigation into the matter, and efforts are underway to locate and arrest the fugitive.

Despite the violent incident, Lashen noted that the relationship between the army and police in the state remains “very cordial.”

The incident added to a worrying trend of fatal clashes between security personnel in Nigeria, especially between soldiers and police officers.

History Of Issues Between Police Personnel And Soldiers

In July, a violent altercation between soldiers and policemen in Lagos reportedly led to multiple injuries, prompting calls for improved inter-agency coordination.

In June, a police officer was reportedly killed in Rivers State during a shootout with military personnel over a checkpoint disagreement.

In 2019, Taraba State was also the scene of a major security controversy when three police officers and a civilian were shot dead by soldiers in the line of duty while transporting a kidnap suspect.

The killings led to a public outcry and a joint investigation by the Defence Headquarters and the Police.

Security analysts have repeatedly urged the Nigerian government to introduce better conflict resolution protocols and joint training exercises to reduce animosity and confusion during joint operations or emergencies.

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