NYSC Member Dies in Abuja Crossfire as Troops Clash with Robbery Suspects

A serving member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Abdulsamad Jamiu, has been killed after being caught in a gun battle between soldiers and suspected 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 him, troops attached to the Guards Brigade Quick Response Group were on routine patrol when they received a distress call about an armed robbery operation in the area.

“Upon arrival, the troops came under gunfire from the fleeing armed robbers, resulting in a brief but intense exchange,” Odunola said.

He explained that the corps member was hit during the exchange.

“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,” he added.

The Army noted that the situation was tense at the time, as soldiers worked to repel the attackers and restore order.

“The situation was initially fluid and volatile as troops worked to repel the attackers and protect residents,” Odunola stated.

Following the incident, the Commander of the Guards Brigade, alongside other officers, visited to commiserate with the family of the deceased, the NYSC, and others affected.

The Army also disclosed that a full investigation has been launched to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

“A thorough investigation has been launched, and findings will be made public,” the statement added.

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

The Army reassured residents of its continued commitment to securing the Federal Capital Territory and said operational procedures would be reviewed to reduce risks to civilians.

“We remain committed to protecting lives and property, and operational procedures will be reviewed to enhance civilian safety,” Odunola said, while urging residents to cooperate with security agencies.

The killing has once again raised concerns about civilian safety during security operations in densely populated areas of the capital.