A former Minister of State for Defence, Sen. Musiliu Olatunde Obanikoro, has queried the constitutionality of the visit of the Commander, 9 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Brig-Gen. Isangubong Akpaumontia, to the popular Balogun Market in Lagos after a fire inferno destroyed some parts of the market recently. 

Describing the visit as “an aberration and unbecoming,” Obanikoro asked: “In what capacity the Brig-Gen paid the visit, especially coming after the inspection of the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwoolu, who did not only inspect the extent of damages, but promised to work together with the traders to prevent future occurrence?

The full statement reads: ”Nigeria is clearly under civilian administration and so is Lagos State. 

“We are clearly guided by rules and as such, the military and its personnel, no matter how highly-placed, cannot and should not be usurping the responsibilities of an elected Governor. How then can one describe the supposed ‘incursion’ of Brigadier-General Akpaumontia of the 9 Brigade?

“Is he a politician in Army uniform? Under whose authority did he visit the market and to do what? Is he the State Commissioner of Police? 

“These are questions I believe higher authorities should ask the Brigadier-General and failure to give right answers should be met with appropriate sanctions,” Obanikoro stated.