The Nigerian government has launched an independent investigation into a clash in the economic capital Lagos between soldiers and police that left at least two civilians dead.
The panel appointed by President Olusegun Obasanjo is tasked with determining the causes of the October 4 clash and the extent of damage, identifying the instigators, and recommending appropriate sanctions and compensation, Justice Minister Bayo Ojo said at a ceremony kicking off the probe.
The six-member panel, headed by a retired judge, will also make recommendations "for more stringent control of the use of arms and ammunitions by law enforcement agencies," he said.
During the clash, at least two civilians were shot dead while the offices of a major police division and more than 60 vehicles within and around its premises were destroyed or vandalised.
The police accused soldiers of carrying out the destruction after a disagreement in the street between a soldier and a policeman.
The army has denied the charge.
The government "will not leave any stone unturned in its efforts to minimize conflicts in the country," which have resulted in "wanton destruction of lives and properties," Ojo said.
More than 10,000 people have been killed in various ethnic, religious and social conflicts, since the civilian rule returned to Nigeria in 1999.
Nigeria's parliament is also investigating the October 4 unrest.