A serving member of the National Youth Service Corps, Abdulsamad Jamiu, has died after he was struck during an exchange of gunfire between Nigerian Army troops and suspected armed robbers in the Dei-Dei area of Abuja, prompting grief and renewed concern over civilian safety during security operations. The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday at Shagari Estate, according to the Nigerian Army’s Guards Brigade Headquarters.
In a statement issued on Sunday by Lieutenant Olawuyi Odunola, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the Guards Brigade, the Army said troops of the Guards Brigade Quick Response Group were on routine night patrol when they received a distress call about an ongoing robbery attack in the area. On arriving at the scene, the soldiers reportedly came under fire from the fleeing suspects, leading to what the Army described as a brief but intense exchange.
The Army said Jamiu was caught in the crossfire during the operation and later died from his injuries despite efforts to secure the area and preserve lives. Odunola described the death as a tragic loss that had cast “a deep shadow” over personnel of the Guards Brigade. The Army also said the situation was initially fluid and volatile as troops sought to repel the attackers and protect residents.
Military authorities said the Commander of the Guards Brigade, alongside officers and soldiers, had extended condolences to Jamiu’s family, the NYSC and others affected by the incident. The remains of the deceased have been deposited at Kubwa General Hospital and handed over to the appropriate authorities, according to the statement.
The Army said a full investigation had been launched to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the shooting and pledged that its findings would be made public. It also said operational procedures would be reviewed to enhance civilian safety, while urging residents to remain calm and continue cooperating with security agencies. The case is likely to intensify scrutiny of rules of engagement in populated urban areas, where armed confrontations can quickly place civilians at risk.
