Army to probe killing of corps member in Abuja gun battle

TRAGIC LOSS OF NYSC CORPS MEMBER DURING ARMED ROBBERY INCIDENT IN DEI-DEI

The Headquarters Guards Brigade of Nigerian Army said it has initiated an investigation into the death of Abdulsamad Jamiu, a serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member during an alleged shootout between armed robbers and soldiers in Dei-Dei area of Abuja.

The Headquarters Guards Brigade said this in a statement by Lieutenant Olawuyi Odunola, its spokesperson on Sunday while confirming the death of the youth corper.

Odunola in the statement claimed Jamiu was shot dead in the early hours of 25 April 2026 at Shagari Estate, Dei-Dei, Abuja when troops of the Guards Brigade Quick Response Group who were on routine night patrol responded to a distress call following an armed robbery attack in the area.

According to the statement, the troops came under gunfire from the fleeing armed robbers, resulting in a brief but intense exchange and in the course of the engagement, Jamiu was caught in the crossfire.

The statement said Jamiu later succumbed to his injuries despite efforts of the troops to secure the area.

“This heartbreaking loss has cast a deep shadow over all personnel of the Guards Brigade,” Odunola said while emphasing that preliminary information indicateed that the situation was fluid and highly volatile, as troops worked to repel the attackers and protect residents of the community from harm.

“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 further indicated.

Odunola quoted the Commander, Guards Brigade, officers and soldiers as extending their deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, the National Youth Service Corps, and all who are affected by this painful loss.

“We share in their grief and stand in solidarity with them during this moment of profound sorrow,” the army spokesperson said.

According to the statement, the remains of the deceased have been respectfully handed over to the appropriate civil authorities and deposited at Kubwa General Hospital.

“Guards Brigade affirms its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property within the Federal Capital Territory. We will continue to review our operational procedures to further enhance civilian safety, even as our troops confront criminal elements who threaten the peace of our communities.

“Members of the public are urged to remain calm and continue to cooperate with security agencies as we work collectively to maintain safety and security”