A teacher at Government Science Secondary School in Donga Local Government Area of Taraba State was stabbed by a newly recruited soldier. The victim, Pavalis Yebduya Joshua, who also serves as the exam officer at the school, was attacked for allegedly punishing the soldier’s brother for arriving late.
According to Channels TV, the incident began on Tuesday morning when Barau Ishaq, a newly recruited soldier, objected to SSS 2 students disciplining his brother, Ishaq Baraya, for tardiness. Ishaq insisted that no one should punish his brother since he had brought him to school. Joshua, however, stood firm on enforcing the punishment himself.
During the confrontation, Joshua attempted to explain his actions by comparing the situation to a military checkpoint, highlighting his seniority in age and education. This exchange escalated tensions, prompting Ishaq to leave, vowing to return with reinforcements.
Approximately 20 minutes later, Ishaq returned with two associates, one a soldier and the other a civilian in army camouflage. They began searching for Joshua, causing students to flee in fear. When Ishaq found Joshua, he attempted to stab him. Joshua managed to evade the knife multiple times but sustained cuts to his palm and fingers.
As students and colleagues gathered, Ishaq fled, abandoning his associates. The school principal reported the incident to the police, who then escorted Joshua and the abandoned soldier to the station. Statements were taken, and Joshua received medical treatment for his injuries.
Ishaq later returned with a Special Forces team, fully armed and in uniform, causing further panic and injuries among the students. Despite promises to cover medical expenses, no action has been taken yet.
At the police station, Ishaq threatened Joshua again with a knife in front of officers and witnesses, asserting he could stab him without consequence. Joshua is now appealing to the state government, police, DSS, and Nigerian Army for justice.
As of now, neither the Nigerian Army nor the state government has issued a statement regarding the incident.