The Nigerian Army has reportedly backtracked from its earlier denial of the circumstances of the death of corps member, Abdulsamad Jamiu in Abuja.
The development follows a formal rebuttal from the deceased’s family, challenged the Army’s initial narrative and called for justice.
On Monday, 27th April, 2026, representatives from HQ Nigerian Army, led by Brigadier S. O. Buhari visited the victim’s family to offer condolences and inspect the scene of the incident. During the visit, the delegation reportedly stated that they were unaware the house was fenced and that the room where the shooting occurred was located downstairs.
However, this statement contradicts the Army’s earlier statement in which the incident was described as a “stray bullet.”
“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. This heartbreaking loss has cast a deep shadow over all personnel of the Guards Brigade.” The Nigerian Army stated earlier.
The family has since rejected this version of events, demanding accountability and raising critical questions about the circumstances surrounding Jamiu’s death.
While formally requesting the retraction of the initial statement and a public apology, the family said the Army is tarnishing the deceased’s integrity
In response, the visiting delegation assured the family that the officers involved would be investigated and, if found guilty, held accountable. As public pressure continues to mount, many Nigerians are closely watching to see whether the promised investigation will deliver justice or fade into silence.
Notably, the Nigerian Army has deleted the statement from their X account, as of press time.
Recall that on April 25, 24-year-old National Youth Service Corps member Abdulsamad Jamiu died in his family’s Shagari Quarters home in Abuja when soldiers from the Guards Brigade allegedly shot through his locked door during a 2 a.m. operation.
