The Nigerian Army is facing widespread criticism following the death of a National Youth Service Corps member, Abdulsamad Jamiu, in the Dei-Dei area of the Federal Capital Territory.
In an official statement, the Army, through its Acting Assistant Director of Public Relations, Odunola Olawuyi, said troops on a routine night patrol responded to a distress call linked to an armed robbery.
According to the military, the soldiers came under fire from fleeing suspects, leading to a gun battle during which Jamiu was “caught in the crossfire.”
However, this account has been strongly disputed by relatives and eyewitnesses, who have provided a contrasting version of events that has since gone viral on social media.
A family member, identified online as #Zarah.2, alleged that soldiers forcefully entered the residence around 2:00 a.m., scaled the fence, and went directly to Jamiu’s room, where they shot through his door.
“Nigeria has happened to our family. Justice must be done for my brother Abdulsamad,” she said.
“Around 2am, you just go into somebody’s house, go straight to the guy’s room, shoot his door twice, and burst the guy’s head. Guy that will be done with service next month,” she added.
Another source, posting as #Mohamazinggg, claimed the victim had locked himself in his room to protect his younger siblings when armed soldiers broke into the house while pursuing a suspect.
“They shot through the door multiple times. A bullet hit his head, and another hit his stomach. They killed him in his own home,” the post read.
The same account further alleged that the soldiers restricted access to the victim immediately after the shooting and later facilitated the cleaning of the scene, raising further concerns among observers.
The incident has triggered protests at the residence, with demonstrators demanding justice and accountability. Videos circulating online show crowds chanting and holding placards, while security personnel monitored the situation.
Public reaction has been swift and intense, with many Nigerians questioning the Army’s version of events and calling for an independent and transparent investigation.
The controversy has also reignited broader concerns about military operations in civilian areas, particularly issues surrounding rules of engagement, accountability, and public trust in security institutions.
In response, the Nigerian Army said it has launched an investigation into the incident.
“The Brigade has since initiated a thorough investigation to fully ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident. We remain committed to transparency and accountability, and findings will be made available in due course,” the statement read.
As investigations proceed, the case continues to draw national attention, with growing demands for clarity on what transpired and for those responsible, if any wrongdoing is established, to be held accountable.
What You Should Know
A corps member, Abdulsamad Jamiu, was killed in Abuja during a military operation, sparking outrage due to conflicting accounts.
The Nigerian Army says he died in crossfire during a gun battle, while relatives allege soldiers entered his home and shot him. The incident has triggered protests and renewed concerns about military conduct in civilian areas.
Authorities have promised an investigation, but public pressure is mounting for transparency, accountability, and justice as the case unfolds.
