Personnel of the Nigerian military were seen engaging in a fight during the visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Bayelsa on Friday.
In a video spotted on social media, the driver of a Hilux vehicle marked “Naval Police” was seen stepping down from his vehicle and exchanging words with another driver.
After returning to his vehicle, another driver with a rifle approached him and threw a punch at the Naval Police driver, triggering a brawl.
The incident quickly escalated into a free-for-all, with personnel attached to both vehicles exchanging blows, while stunned civilians watched in disbelief.
The cause of the altercation could not be immediately ascertained as of press time.
The clash reportedly occurred as the President was leaving the venue of an official event during his visit to the state.
President Tinubu was in Bayelsa to commission projects, where he reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to tackle insecurity across the country.
He pledged sustained investment in the nation’s armed forces, stating that his government would continue to equip and train security personnel to confront insurgency, banditry, and other violent threats.
Meanwhile, the Bayelsa State Government has announced a work-free day and ordered markets to shut down on Friday ahead of the visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the state.
Bellnews reports that the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, made this known on Thursday in Yenagoa.
He explained that the decision was taken to prepare for the President’s arrival and allow residents to take part in the planned activities.
She said the President would be in the state for a one-day official visit where he is expected to unveil several projects executed by the government.
According to her, the state government fixed Friday, April 10, 2026, as a public holiday so workers and residents can join in welcoming the President and attend the events scheduled for the day.
During the visit, Tinubu is expected to commission key projects, including a state-owned gas turbine located at Opolo-Elebele, a 60-kilometre dual carriageway stretching from Onopa to the LNG area, and a 630-metre bridge connecting Angiama to Oporoma in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area.
Human rights advocacy donation
Security consulting services
The commissioner called on residents, especially traders, to follow the directive by closing their shops and coming out to receive the President.
The government added that the steps taken are meant to ensure a smooth and well-organised visit across the state.