Five Suspects Arrested As Military Probes Killing Of 14-Year-Old Girl In Maiduguri

The Nigerian military has confirmed that a 14-year-old girl was killed in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, noting that an investigation into the incident is underway.

KanyiDaily had reported how the girl died on Saturday in the Costain area of Maiduguri after being hit by a stray bullet allegedly fired by members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).

In a statement on Monday, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, spokesperson for the Theatre Command of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), said five suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident.

“The troops of Operation HADIN KAI, in conjunction with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), have arrested five suspects linked to the unlawful use of firearms during a social event,” the statement said.

“The incident occurred at about 2:00 p.m. on 4 April, 2026, when vigilantes—later identified as members of an escorts team attached to the Chairman of a Local Government Area engaged in sporadic firing into the air during a wedding celebration at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Teachers Staff Quarters.”

Uba said the suspects, identified as Muhammad Husaini (28), Abba Jiddu (25), Abba Kolo Mohammed (20), Ali Adam (20), and Nura Mohammed (18), were quickly traced and apprehended.

He added, “The suspects are currently in custody and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with extant laws.

“The Theatre Command strongly condemns the act, describing it as highly unprofessional, unauthorized, and a clear violation of established regulations governing the handling and use of firearms.

“It reiterates that the Civilian Joint Task Force operates strictly as a support group and is not permitted to engage in indiscriminate use of firearms under any circumstances, particularly within civilian environments.

“A comprehensive investigation has been initiated in collaboration with relevant state authorities, including the Office of the Senior Adviser on Security to the Borno State Government, to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the Maiduguri incident and ensure that all those found culpable are brought to justice.”

Lt. Col. Uba said the overall security situation in the area remains calm, but troops are keeping a heightened presence to maintain law and order.

He also expressed condolences to the victim’s family and reassured the public of the military’s commitment to accountability and civilian protection.

KanyiDaily also reported how Pastor John Onu of the Glorious Gospel Fire Assembly was killed by a police stray bullet while observing his morning devotion.