Esther Oseyiomon
The Nigerian Army has confirmed the death of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Abdulsamad Jamiu, who was fatally hit during a gun battle between troops and armed robbery suspects in Dei-Dei, Abuja.
The incident occurred on April 25 when troops of the Guards Brigade Quick Response Group, while on routine night patrol, responded to a distress call from residents of Shagari Estate over an ongoing robbery attack.
According to the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Olawuyi Odunola, the troops encountered fleeing suspects who opened fire, triggering a brief but intense exchange of gunfire.
She explained that the situation rapidly escalated as soldiers engaged the criminals while attempting to secure the area and protect civilians, during which the corps member was caught in the crossfire.
Jamiu was immediately evacuated for medical treatment but later succumbed to his injuries, the Army said.
Describing the incident as “tragic and deeply regrettable,” military authorities said officers and personnel of the Guards Brigade have extended condolences to the family of the deceased, the National Youth Service Corps, and residents affected by the incident.
The Army further disclosed that a full investigation has been launched to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the shooting, assuring that findings will be made public upon completion.
Meanwhile, the remains of the deceased have been deposited at Kubwa General Hospital, as the Guards Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the Federal Capital Territory while urging residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies.