The Nigerian Navy has confirmed the arrest of its personnel involved in a public altercation with fellow military officers in Bayelsa State during President Bola Tinubu’s visit on Friday.
The incident, which has gone viral, was captured in a 53-second video showing a heated confrontation between uniformed personnel.
In the footage, a driver of a Hilux vehicle marked “Naval Police” is seen stepping out of his vehicle and exchanging words with another driver. Moments later, after returning to his vehicle, a soldier carrying a rifle approached and threw a punch at the Naval Police driver, triggering a chaotic brawl.
The situation quickly escalated into a free-for-all, with personnel from both sides exchanging blows as stunned civilians watched.
The clash reportedly occurred as the President was departing the venue of an official engagement in the state. However, the exact cause of the altercation remains unclear.
Reacting to the incident, the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abi Folorunso, confirmed in a statement posted on X on Saturday that the personnel involved have been taken into custody.
He added that they are currently undergoing appropriate administrative and disciplinary measures in line with military regulations.