Soldiers Mistakenly Kill NYSC Member During Robbery Response in Abuja

The Headquarters Guards Brigade has confirmed the death of Mr. Abdulsamad Jamiu, a serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, who was accidentally killed during a security operation following an armed robbery attack in Dei-Dei, Abuja.

In a statement issued on April 26, 2026, the Brigade described the incident as a tragic loss that occurred in the early hours of April 25 at Shagari Estate, Dei-Dei, within the Federal Capital Territory.

According to the statement signed by Lieutenant Olawuyi Odunola, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, troops of the Guards Brigade Quick Response Group were on routine night patrol when they responded to a distress call over an armed robbery incident in the area.

The statement explained that upon arrival, the soldiers came under gunfire from fleeing armed robbers, leading to a brief but intense exchange of fire.

During the confrontation, Jamiu was reportedly caught in the crossfire and sustained fatal injuries.

“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 statement read.

The military noted that the situation was highly volatile as troops worked to repel the attackers and protect residents of the community.

The Commander of the Guards Brigade, alongside officers and soldiers, extended condolences to the family of the deceased, the NYSC, and others affected by the incident.

The Brigade also announced that a full investigation has been launched to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident, assuring the public of transparency and accountability.

“The findings will be made available in due course,” the statement added.

The remains of the deceased have been handed over to the appropriate civil authorities and deposited at Kubwa General Hospital.

The Guards Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across the Federal Capital Territory and stated that operational procedures would be reviewed to improve civilian safety during security operations.

Residents were also urged to remain calm and continue cooperating with security agencies in the fight against criminal activities.