Abdulsamad Jamiu, a serving National Youth Service Corps member, died in the early hours of Saturday after being struck by stray bullets during a firefight between soldiers and suspected robbers in Shagari Estate, Dei-Dei, Abuja. The Nigerian Army confirmed the incident in a statement issued Sunday by Olawuyi Odunola, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters Guards Brigade. According to Odunola, troops from the Guards Brigade Quick Response Group were on routine night patrol when they responded to a distress call about an ongoing robbery. Upon arrival, they came under gunfire from armed suspects, leading to a brief but intense exchange. During the confrontation, Jamiu was caught in the crossfire and sustained fatal injuries. Despite efforts by soldiers to secure the area, he died. The situation was described as fluid and volatile as troops worked to repel attackers and protect residents. The Commander of the Guards Brigade has extended condolences to Jamiu's family, the NYSC, and others affected. The army has launched a full investigation into the incident, with findings to be made public. Jamiu's remains have been deposited at Kubwa General Hospital and handed over to relevant authorities. Odunola reaffirmed the Guards Brigade's commitment to safeguarding lives and property in the Federal Capital Territory and urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies.
The army says it was protecting residents, yet a corps member died in the crossfire during a routine patrol response. The incident occurred in a residential area where civilians like Jamiu are supposed to be shielded by security operations. The investigation may clarify events, but it cannot undo the loss of a young service member in a conflict not of his making. Residents are asked to stay calm while relying on forces whose actions directly led to the death of one of their own.
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