The Nigerian Army has acknowledged inconsistencies in its explanation surrounding the death of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Abdulsamad Jamiu, amid growing disagreement with his family over how he was killed during a security operation in Abuja.
Jamiu, a 24-year-old corps member and civil engineer, was reportedly killed during an incident in the early hours of Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Shagari Estate in the Dei-Dei area of Abuja.
Military authorities initially claimed he was caught in a crossfire between troops of the Guards Brigade and suspected armed robbers who had attacked the estate.
However, the victim’s family has strongly rejected that version of events, insisting that he was shot inside his bedroom by soldiers attached to the Presidential Brigade of Guards, and was not involved in any criminal activity or crossfire situation.
A military spokesperson later admitted that there were gaps and conflicting details between the army’s account and that of the family, confirming that an internal investigation has begun to determine what truly happened.
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According to the spokesperson, soldiers believed they were pursuing armed robbers at the time of the incident, but the family’s version of events presents a different picture.
He said the military is currently engaging with the bereaved family while also carrying out internal verification.
The spokesperson added that the findings of the investigation would determine accountability, stating that any personnel found culpable or to have acted outside their mandate would face consequences.
The incident has sparked public outrage, with renewed criticism of military operations in civilian areas and concerns about rising civilian casualties during security responses.
Human rights advocates have also called for transparency and an independent investigation.
In its defence, the military emphasized the difficult nature of security operations, noting that such missions sometimes result in unintended losses.
Meanwhile, the family of the deceased corps member has maintained that he was innocent and is demanding an independent and transparent probe into the killing.
Adding to the controversy, the family also alleged that soldiers ordered the burial of parts of the victim’s remains within their compound after the incident.
They claim that fragments of his skull and brain matter were handled improperly and buried without their consent.
A military investigative team has since visited the family, interviewed witnesses including relatives, neighbours, and vigilante members, and reportedly reviewed claims that soldiers instructed locals to clean up the scene and dispose of remains.
The army says its investigation is ongoing and has assured that justice will be served. The family, while acknowledging these assurances, says it will continue to monitor the process closely and insists that accountability must be ensured.
They have also expressed appreciation to Nigerians, civil society groups, and the media for drawing attention to the case, saying justice for Abdulsamad Jamiu remains a priority.
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