NYSC Member Killed By Army During Crossfire With Armed Robbers In Abuja

Abdulsamad Jamiu, a serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), died after being shot by soldiers from the Guards Brigade’s quick response in Dei-Dei, Abuja.

The incident happened early Saturday morning at Shagari Estate.

A statement from the Guards Brigade headquarters, said troops were sent to the area after residents reportedly raised an alarm over an armed robbery attack.

The army said Jamiu was hit during a gun battle between soldiers and the fleeing suspects.

“Upon arrival, the troops came under gunfire from the fleeing armed robbers, resulting in a brief but intense exchange,” the statement read.

“In the course of the engagement, Mr Jamiu was caught in the crossfire. Despite efforts by troops to secure the area and preserve lives, he sadly succumbed to his injuries.”

The brigade described the scene as tense and unstable at the time, adding that Jamiu’s body had been handed over to civil authorities at Kubwa General Hospital.

The army also expressed sympathy to his family, the NYSC, and the general public, while confirming that a full investigation had been ordered.

Olawuyi Odunola, acting assistant director of army public relations, said the brigade remains focused on safeguarding lives and property in the Federal Capital Territory and would reassess its operations.

However, someone reportedly close to Jamiu’s family has rejected the army’s version of events, calling it an attempt to hide the truth.

Speaking on X, the source claimed the soldiers fired without control and insisted there was no gunfight with armed robbers.

“The army is not telling the truth. Jamiu was not caught in any crossfire with robbers. The soldiers came shooting and killed him. This story of armed robbers and crossfire is a lie to cover what really happened,” the source said.

The person also noted that residents of the estate are still shaken and are calling for an independent investigation, not just one conducted by the military.

At the time of filing this report, the NYSC has not released any statement regarding the incident.

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