Viral videos from the lavish Lekki ceremony spark outrage as military probes unauthorised deployment of personnel at private event

The Nigerian Army has arrested two serving soldiers over their alleged involvement in providing unauthorised security at the high-profile wedding of popular TikTok creator Habeeb Hamzat, widely known as Peller, in Lagos.

The soldiers were reportedly seen acting as bouncers during the lavish ceremony held over the weekend in Lekki, an appearance that has since triggered widespread reactions online and prompted a military investigation.

According to sources familiar with the development, the arrests were made on Tuesday morning following credible intelligence that some personnel were deployed illegally to the celebrity event. The development was first reported by SaharaReporters.

The detained soldiers have been identified as Private Onasanya Ifeoluwa and Private Ukpai Onyinyechi, both attached to the 81 Division Medical Services and Hospital (81DMSH) in Obalende, Lagos.

A senior military source confirmed that preliminary investigations are already underway to determine the extent of their involvement and to identify any other personnel linked to the incident.

“Following credible intelligence on the involvement of Nigerian Army personnel in illegal deployment during a popular influencer’s wedding in Lekki, Lagos, the personnel were arrested. Investigation is ongoing, and further details will be provided as it unfolds,” the source said.

The controversy erupted after several videos from the event surfaced online, showing uniformed soldiers managing access at the venue and escorting guests. One widely circulated clip allegedly captured a soldier acting as a personal escort for a social media influencer, further fuelling public criticism.

Many Nigerians have since questioned why active military personnel would be present in an official capacity at a private social gathering, especially one involving entertainers and influencers.

What began as a glamorous and widely celebrated wedding quickly turned controversial as the footage gained traction, drawing attention to concerns over the misuse of military authority and resources.

The Nigerian Army has consistently maintained strict rules prohibiting its personnel from engaging in private security duties or participating in any unauthorised deployment without official approval.

As investigations continue, the Army is expected to take disciplinary action against any individuals found culpable, while also reinforcing its stance on professionalism and adherence to military regulations.