The Nigerian Army has commenced investigations into allegations that some military personnel are shielding illicit drug peddlers in Apapa-Iganmu Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos State.
The probe follows claims by the Chairman of Apapa-Iganmu LCDA, Mr. Jimoh Saliu, who alleged that some senior military officers were providing cover for drug dealers operating in the area.
Saliu, in a statement on Sunday, accused criminal elements of using an area known as Gidan Drama in the Marine Beach community of Apapa located close to the Tego Army Barracks as a hub for illicit drug activities.
He described the location as a hideout for notorious criminals, noting that activities such as drug trafficking and the sale of stolen goods were rampant in the area.
Speaking at an event marking the 70th anniversary of the Corona Schools Trust Council at St. Theresa Nursery and Primary School, Marine Beach, Saliu called on the Lagos State Government and public-spirited individuals to acquire the area for the construction of a secondary school.
According to him, the security situation in the LCDA had become alarming, alleging that criminals often escape arrest by running into Gidan Drama, where they are allegedly protected by uniformed personnel.
“The whole area has been troubled by criminal elements. I have been working with the police to track them down, but whenever arrests are about to be made, military and police officers intervene to prevent it,” Saliu claimed.
He further alleged that local government officials who attempt to enter the area are either threatened or arrested, adding that three staff members of the LCDA were recently detained and taken to the Naval Dockyard during an intelligence visit before being released following his intervention.
Reacting to the allegations, the spokesperson for the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Lt.-Col. Musa Yahaya, said the claims would be investigated.
Yahaya noted that the chairman needed to be specific about which arm of the military was being accused, stressing that the military comprises the Army, Navy and Air Force.
“I speak for the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army. This issue requires investigation before any response can be given. I will make inquiries,” he said.
Meanwhile, at the same event, the Chief Executive Officer of the Corona Schools Trust Council, Mrs. Adedoyin Adesina, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to tackling the challenge of out-of-school children.
She disclosed that no fewer than 75 children had been enrolled in schools within the Ago-Egan community of Bariga LCDA over the past three years, adding that the initiative would be extended to Gangare in Apapa-Iganmu LCDA.
