A serving corps member with the National Youth Service Corps, National Youth Service Corps, Abdulsamad Jamiu, has died after being hit by stray bullets during a gun battle between soldiers and suspected armed robbers in Abuja.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday at Shagari Estate in the Dei-Dei area of the Federal Capital Territory, throwing the community into shock.
The Nigerian Army confirmed the development in a statement issued on Sunday by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters Guards Brigade, Olawuyi Odunola.
According to the Army, troops of the Guards Brigade Quick Response Group were on routine night patrol when they received a distress call about an ongoing robbery attack in the area.
On arriving at the scene, the soldiers reportedly came under fire from fleeing suspects, leading to a brief but intense exchange of gunfire.
During the exchange, the corps member was struck by 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,” the Army statement said.
The Army described the incident as a tragic loss, noting that the situation at the time was highly volatile as troops worked to repel the attackers and protect residents.
It added that senior officers of the Guards Brigade had reached out to the family of the deceased, the NYSC, and other stakeholders to express condolences over the incident.
The Army further confirmed that a full investigation has been launched to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Officials said findings from the investigation would be made public once concluded.
The remains of the deceased have been deposited at Kubwa General Hospital and handed over to the appropriate authorities.
The Army also reaffirmed its commitment to civilian safety, stating that operational procedures would be reviewed to reduce risks to residents during security operations.
Residents of the area have been urged to remain calm and continue cooperating with security agencies as investigations continue.
