A Maiduguri resident, Abdulrahman Mustapha, also known as Abchin, has died in a disputed incident involving the Nigerian Army. The Theatre Command of Operation HADIN KAI claims the deceased was shot while attempting to snatch a soldier's rifle, but the family disputes this account, alleging extrajudicial killing.
The incident reportedly occurred on March 22, at the Polo Axis near the Federal High Court, Maiduguri. According to social media posts, Abchin was returning from a Sallah visit when he was apprehended and fatally shot by military personnel. The posts also alleged that the deceased was unarmed and that the incident was a clear case of human rights abuse.
The Nigerian Army, however, has initiated an investigation into the incident, citing preliminary operational indicators that suggest the incident may have underlying security implications. The Theatre Command has stated that a comprehensive and impartial investigation is ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The family of the deceased has expressed grave concern over the tone and content of the preliminary narrative presented by the Nigerian Army. They argue that the attempt to suggest speculative security implications without conclusive findings raises serious concerns and risks influencing the investigation's outcome.
The Nigerian Army's response to the death of Abdulrahman Mustapha raises more questions than answers. By attempting to justify the killing as a security operation, the Army is essentially shielding its personnel from accountability. The family's call for an independent investigation and compensation is a reasonable demand, given the allegations of extrajudicial killing and human rights abuse. The incident highlights the need for transparency and accountability in the military's operations, particularly in the North East region where such incidents are not uncommon. The Nigerian Army must take concrete steps to address the family's concerns and ensure that justice is served.
