Vehicular movement was disrupted along the Okitipupa–Ore Highway on Wednesday following the alleged fatal shooting of a driver identified as Solomon James, a native of Kogi State.
It was gathered that the incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. near the D-Choice area in Ore. The deceased was reportedly conveying kegs of diesel when he was allegedly chased by a soldier riding a motorcycle.
According to eyewitness accounts, the pursuit continued for some distance before gunshots were fired at the moving vehicle. The driver was reportedly struck by a bullet, causing him to lose control of the vehicle, which veered off the highway and came to a stop in a nearby bush.
Witnesses further alleged that the soldier involved in the incident fled the scene immediately after the shooting. When our correspondent visited the location, several bullet holes were visible on the vehicle.
The incident attracted a large crowd of residents and road users, resulting in temporary traffic congestion and disruption along the busy highway.
As of the time of filing this report, the circumstances surrounding the shooting remained unclear, while security agencies had yet to issue an official statement on the matter. Residents and commuters who spoke with THE HOPE called for a thorough investigation to uncover the facts behind the incident and ensure accountability.
A security source, however, confirmed the occurrence of the incident to THE HOPE.