The family of slain National Youth Service Corps member Abdulsamad Jamiu has rejected the Nigerian Army's claim that he died in a crossfire. They insist that evidence at the scene, including bullet trajectory and damage to the door, contradicts the military's version of events. The family has called for an independent investigation and alleged that soldiers later admitted the shooting was a mistake.
Family Disputes Army Crossfire Narrative
According to the family, as reported by Daily Trust, the incident occurred around 2 a.m. when soldiers entered Shagari Estate in Abuja. Jamiu was alone in his room when a shot was fired from outside, passing through the door and striking him in the head. The family stated, 'He was shot in his room.' They added that the direction of the bullet and the damage to the door contradict any suggestion of an exchange of gunfire.
The Nigerian Army had earlier stated that troops from the Guards Brigade Quick Response Group came under attack from fleeing robbers, and Jamiu was caught in the crossfire. The family dismissed this explanation, saying there was no evidence of any armed confrontation.
Family Rejects Army Crossfire Killing Claim
Relatives also questioned the claim that a robbery took place in the area. They said no such incident was reported by residents that night. They further alleged that soldiers entered the compound by scaling the fence and pointed to damaged barbed wire on the fence as proof. The main gate remained closed throughout, they asserted.
'The shot was fired from outside the room, through a closed door,' the family stated. They said Jamiu's sister was in the house at the time and came out after hearing the gunshot. According to their account, soldiers instructed her to remain calm and step outside. Neighbors who gathered at the scene later contacted members of a local vigilance group. The family alleged that some of those responders were asked by soldiers to clean bloodstains, raising concerns about the handling of potential evidence.
Calls for Independent Investigation Intensify
In a more serious claim, as reported by Daily Trust, the family said some soldiers admitted the shooting was a mistake and acknowledged that an innocent person had been killed. They said this admission was made in the presence of a Divisional Police Officer and documented in writing. They argued that such details undermine the military's earlier statement and strengthen the case for accountability.
The family has called for an independent investigation outside military control and demanded that those involved be identified and prosecuted. They also asked for a withdrawal of the initial statement and a formal apology.
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Source: Legit.ng
