Slain Corps Member: Family Demands Retraction, Apology as Army Visits Abuja Home

The family of Abdulsamad Jamiu, a National Youth Service Corps member allegedly killed by soldiers in Abuja, has demanded a public apology and retraction of the Nigerian Army’s initial claim that he died in “crossfire.”

 

The demand followed a condolence visit on Monday by a military delegation led by Brigadier S.O. Buhari to the family’s residence, where the incident occurred.

 

According to a statement posted on X by a family representative, Abu Bakr, the delegation admitted during the visit that key details of the scene were not known at the time the Army issued its earlier statement.

 

“During the visit, they stated that they were unaware that the house was fenced and that the room where the shooting occurred was located downstairs. This contradicts their earlier claim suggesting the death resulted from a ‘stray bullet,’” the statement read.

 

The delegation reportedly expressed condolences and assured the family that the officers involved would be investigated and held accountable.

 

However, the family rejected the Army’s initial narrative, describing it as an “insult” to the memory of the deceased, and insisted on a formal retraction and public apology.

 

“The family has formally demanded the retraction of the initial statement and a public apology… trust has already been undermined,” the statement added.

 

They further alleged that Jamiu was shot inside his home, disputing claims that he was caught in a gun exchange.

 

“This was not an accident. He was in his home; military men entered the premises, approached his room, and shot him through the door. Twice,” the family stated.

 

The Nigerian Army had earlier said troops on routine patrol responded to a distress call about an armed robbery and came under fire from suspects, leading to a gun duel during which Jamiu was “caught in the crossfire.”

 

But the family is now calling for a transparent investigation, including disclosure of the commanding officer involved, the source of the distress call, and justification for the use of force.

 

Jamiu, 24, was reportedly killed around 2:00 a.m. on Saturday, just one month before completing his national service.