The Nigerian Navy said it has detained several officers involved in a public brawl with soldiers during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Bayelsa State on Friday.

‎The violent inter-service confrontation was captured in a 53-second video that went viral on social media.

The officers’ detention was announced in a statement by Commander Rasheed Iginla, command information officer, Headquarters Central Naval Command, Yenagoa.

Mr Iginla said, “We wish to inform the general public that all personnel directly involved have been identified, taken into custody and are undergoing the necessary administrative procedures in line with extant military regulations and disciplinary frameworks.

“Additional measures are being taken to ensure accountability, prevent recurrence and reinforce inter-service harmony. It is important to emphasise that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain a unified and professional institution, bound by a common mandate to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our nation.

“The Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Army, as integral components of the Armed Forces, continue to operate in close synergy and mutual respect in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.”

He added that the unfortunate incident does not in any way reflect the enduring spirit of cooperation and jointness that exists among the services.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria is unwavering in its commitment to professionalism, discipline and ethical norms that define the profession of arms,” he said.

Mr Iginla urged members of the public to remain calm and continue to support the armed forces in their efforts to maintain peace, security and stability across the country. 

(NAN)