A couple preparing for their wedding has taken legal action against Nigerian military personnel, alleging they were assaulted and unlawfully detained by officers in Abuja.
The incident, which has garnered significant attention on social media, involves Mr. Vershima Mker and Miss Lami Iorvihi, who claim they were attacked after allegedly obstructing a military convoy in the Gwarinpa area.
According to the lawsuit shared by journalist Rufia Oseni, the couple was subjected to physical abuse and held for eight hours without any formal charges. A viral video captures the distressing moments of the alleged assault, where Mker can be heard pleading with the officers, questioning how he could have damaged their vehicle. The situation escalated when officers returned with a horsewhip, dragging Mker from his car while Iorvihi cried out for help, indicating she had also been injured.
The couple’s legal representatives are demanding N150 million in compensation for the “inhuman treatment” they endured. The lawsuit specifically calls for the dismissal of Major General G.S. Mohammed and Corporal A. Abubakar, accusing them of severe misconduct that included beating and humiliating the couple.
In their statement, the couple described themselves as university graduates who were visiting family in preparation for their upcoming marriage when the incident occurred. They assert that they complied with military protocol by moving aside for the convoy but were nonetheless assaulted.
In response to the allegations, the Nigerian Army has initiated an investigation into the incident. Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, confirmed that Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede has ordered a thorough inquiry to clarify the events surrounding this altercation. He emphasized the Army’s commitment to protecting law-abiding citizens and assured that appropriate measures would be taken based on the investigation’s findings.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding military conduct in Nigeria and has sparked public outrage, with many calling for accountability from military officials involved in such acts of brutality.
