Video: Navy detains officers over Bayelsa clash with soldiers during Tinubu’s visit

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Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas

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The Nigerian Navy has confirmed that some of its personnel have been arrested following a physical confrontation involving other security operatives in Bayelsa State during President Bola Tinubu’s visit on Friday.

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The altercation, which circulated widely online, was captured in a 53-second video showing uniformed officers engaged in a heated exchange.

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In the clip, a driver operating a Hilux vehicle labelled “Naval Police” is seen stepping out to confront another driver, leading to a verbal dispute.

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Shortly after returning to his vehicle, a soldier armed with a rifle approached and struck the Naval Police driver, triggering a violent scuffle.

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The incident quickly escalated into a broader fight, with personnel from both sides trading blows while onlookers watched in shock.

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The clash reportedly happened as the President was departing the venue of an official engagement in the state.

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As of the time of filing this report, the exact cause of the confrontation had not been established.

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Responding to the development on Saturday via his X account, the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abi Folorunso, confirmed that those involved are now in custody and facing disciplinary action.

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“The affected personnel are in custody and already undergoing appropriate administrative and disciplinary procedures in accordance with extant military regulations,” he wrote.

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