The Nigerian Army 81 Division addressed speculations surrounding the death of operative Boyi ThankGod, denying claims that he shot himself. According to the Division, ThankGod, attached to the 35 Artillery Brigade in Alamala, Abeokuta, Ogun State, succumbed to negligence after mishandling his firearms.
The incident occurred on Monday during the Armed Forces Remembrance Day, where ThankGod was on barracks standby duty at the 35 Brigade headquarters. Initial reports suggested he had taken his own life, allegedly due to depression and low morale within the military system.
Friends of the deceased soldier mentioned his disinterest in the Army job and grievances about corruption and low morale. However, the military, through a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni, the acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, dismissed these reports as insinuations and misrepresentations.
The statement also refuted circulating social media claims that ThankGod’s death was linked to the non-payment of Ration Cash Allowance. The military emphasized the need for accurate information and urged the public to avoid spreading unverified details regarding the tragic incident.
As investigations continue, the Nigerian Army seeks to clarify the circumstances surrounding ThankGod’s demise, emphasizing the importance of responsible reporting on such sensitive matters.