A delegation of the Nigerian Army has visited the family of Abdulsamad Jamiu, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member killed during an operation by soldiers of the Guards Brigade Quick Response Force at Shagari Estate in Dei-Dei, Abuja, assuring them that investigations are ongoing.
Gatekeepers News reports that the visit came amid mounting controversy over the circumstances surrounding Jamiu’s death and the family’s rejection of the military’s initial account.
In an earlier statement, the Guards Brigade had said the corps member was caught in a crossfire on April 25 after troops responded to a distress call from residents reportedly under attack by armed robbers.
“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.”
But Jamiu’s family disputed the account, insisting physical evidence contradicted claims of a gun battle.
According to the family, soldiers entered the estate around 2 a.m. and “discharged a firearm at close range through the door of Jamiu’s room,” with the shot striking him in the head and killing him instantly.
They called for an immediate, independent and transparent investigation outside the military chain of command, with civilian oversight, as well as a public apology and prosecution of those responsible.
In a follow-up statement on Monday, the family said an army delegation led by S.O. Buhari visited the residence to condole with them and inspect the scene of the shooting.
According to the family, members of the delegation acknowledged during the visit that they were unaware the house was fenced and that the room where the shooting occurred was downstairs — details they argued contradict the military’s earlier “stray bullet” narrative.
The delegation reportedly expressed condolences and assured the family that officers involved in the incident would be investigated and held accountable.
However, the family renewed its demand for the retraction of the army’s initial statement and a public apology, describing the earlier version of events as an insult to the memory of their son.
They also expressed concern that trust had been eroded, noting that military personnel had visited the scene a day before the disputed statement was issued.
“We reiterate our demand that those responsible for the killing of Abdulsalam Jamiu be brought to justice,” the family said.
“This was not an accident. He was in his home; military men entered the premises, approached his room, and shot him through the door. Twice. This was not a mistake.”
In a video accompanying the family’s statement, Jamiu’s father was seen demanding an immediate retraction of the military’s account.
“First, that statement should be dropped. They should retract it immediately. It’s hurtful,” he said.
Responding, the leader of the army delegation said, “That’s why I said investigations are ongoing on the matter.”
