Nigerian Army Officers Accused of Brutality and Extortion in Sapele Fuel Station Saga

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

Residents of Sapele, Delta State, have expressed outrage following disturbing allegations of brutality, intimidation, and extortion against personnel of the Nigerian Army. The incident, which reportedly occurred on 21 August 2025 at Dums International Limited Petrol Station along Sapele/Warri Express Road, has sparked fears over human rights violations and abuse of power by military officers.

According to a report first shared by Main Sapele Amebo, trouble began when soldiers accused the filling station of selling fuel that allegedly damaged the engine of their Hilux vehicle after purchasing ₦25,000 worth of petrol. Despite the lack of evidence, the soldiers allegedly shut down the station, brutalised its manager, Pastor Armstrong Odeta, and the pump attendant, Mr. Avwerosuo Avwonyen, before ordering their detention at the Sapele Divisional Police Station.

Alleged Extortion and Brutality

Eyewitnesses and community members revealed that Pastor Odeta was forced under duress to agree to pay ₦7 million for a new engine and an additional ₦1 million for repairs. His Sienna vehicle was also seized, and vital station documents, including waybills from Predent Energy Company, were reportedly destroyed. The victims were detained overnight and only released the following morning.

Pastor Odeta, who is said to be traumatised and currently hospitalised at an undisclosed facility in Sapele, fears for his life amid alleged continuous threats from the soldiers involved. Residents have described the incident as “barbaric” and a deliberate attempt to extort huge sums of money.

Call for Urgent Government Intervention

The incident has raised serious concerns about military-civilian relations in Sapele. Rights advocates warn that such unchecked actions by security operatives undermine public trust, threaten community stability, and erode confidence in law enforcement institutions.

Citizens are now calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, and other relevant authorities to immediately intervene. They demand a full-scale investigation into the alleged brutality and extortion, as well as protection for Pastor Odeta and staff of the filling station.

This latest development underscores the urgent need for reforms in military conduct, especially in civilian interactions, to safeguard human rights and prevent further breakdown of law and order in Sapele.

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