Senator Ireti Heebah Kingibe has expressed deep sorrow over the death of National Youth Service Corps member Abdulsamad Jamiu, allegedly involving personnel of the Nigerian Army in Abuja.
The incident reportedly occurred when troops of the Guards Brigade Quick Response Group, on routine night patrol, responded to a distress call following an armed robbery attack in the area.
In a statement issued on Monday, the senator described the development as tragic and heartbreaking.
“I am deeply saddened and heartbroken by the tragic death of Abdulsamad Jamiu, a young Nigerian who lost his life in an unfortunate incident involving personnel of the Nigerian Army,” she said.
Kingibe noted that the incident highlights the need for greater caution in security operations.
“This painful loss is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for heightened caution and professionalism in all security operations. While preliminary reports indicate that this was an accidental shooting, the consequences are devastating and irreversible,” she stated.
She extended condolences to the family of the deceased, acknowledging the difficulty of their loss.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the parents, family, and loved ones of the deceased. The grief of losing a child under such circumstances is unimaginable, and as a nation, we share in their sorrow,” she said.
The senator also called for accountability and a thorough probe into the incident.
“I acknowledge the response of the Nigerian Army following this incident. However, beyond response, there must be a thorough, transparent, and accountable investigation to ensure that justice is served and that lessons are learned,” she added.
Kingibe further stressed the need for improved safety measures for corps members and civilians.
“This tragic occurrence underscores the urgent need to strengthen rules of engagement, improve coordination between security agencies and civilians, and ensure that our young Nigerians, especially corps members, are adequately protected at all times. Preventable incidents such as this must never be allowed to happen again,” she said.
She pledged to engage relevant authorities to push for reforms aimed at protecting citizens and restoring public confidence in security institutions.
“As the Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory, I will continue to engage relevant authorities to push for reforms that prioritize the safety of our citizens and restore public confidence in our security institutions,” she said.
“May the soul of Abdulsamad Jamiu rest in peace, and may God grant his family the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” she added.
