By Tunde Olatunji, Abuja
The Guards Brigade of the Nigerian Army has ordered a full investigation into the death of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Abdulsamad Jamiu, following conflicting accounts of the incident.
The corps member died during a shooting incident on April 25, 2026, at Shagari Estate in Dei-Dei, Abuja.
In an earlier statement, the Army said Jamiu was caught in crossfire during an exchange between troops and armed robbers.
“The unfortunate incident occurred when troope. responded to a distress call… and came under gunfire from fleeing armed robbers,” the statement read.
“In the course of the engagement, Mr. Jamiu was caught in the crossfire, he sadly succumbed to his injuries.”
However, the family has rejected this version, insisting that the deceased was shot inside his room.
“The shot was fired from outside the room, through a closed door,” the family said.
They argued that the trajectory of the bullet contradicts the Army’s claim of crossfire.
The family also alleged that soldiers gained entry into the compound by scaling the fence, pointing to damaged barbed wire as evidence.
They further claimed that Jamiu’s sister, who was present in the house, was instructed by soldiers to remain calm after the shooting.
The Guards Brigade has since sent a delegation to condole with the family and pledged a transparent investigation.
“We remain committed to transparency and accountability and findings will be made available in due course,” the Army stated.
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