A serving member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Abdulsamad Jamiu, has died after being caught in a crossfire during an armed robbery incident in the Dei-Dei area of Abuja.
The Nigerian Army confirmed the incident in a statement, noting that it occurred in the early hours of April 25, 2026, at Shagari Estate.
“Headquarters Guards Brigade regrets the tragic loss of Mr. Abdulsamad Jamiu, a serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member during a security incident in the early hours of 25 April 2026 at Shagari Estate, Dei-Dei, Abuja,” the statement said.
According to the Army, troops of the Guards Brigade Quick Response Group were on routine patrol when they received a distress call about an armed robbery in the area. Upon arrival, they reportedly came under gunfire from fleeing suspects, leading to a brief but intense exchange.
“The unfortunate incident 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. Upon arrival, the troops came under gunfire from the fleeing armed robbers, resulting in a brief but intense 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. This heartbreaking loss has cast a deep shadow over all personnel of the Guards Brigade,” the statement added.
The Army said preliminary findings indicate the situation was volatile, with troops working to repel the attackers and protect residents.
“Preliminary information indicates that the situation was fluid and highly volatile, as troops worked to repel the attackers and protect residents of the community from harm,” it stated.
The Guards Brigade extended condolences to the family of the deceased, the NYSC, and others affected by the incident.
“The Commander, Guards Brigade, officers and soldiers extend their deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, the National Youth Service Corps, and all who are affected by this painful loss. We share in their grief and stand in solidarity with them during this moment of profound sorrow,” the statement noted.
The Army also disclosed that a full investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“The Brigade has since initiated a thorough investigation to fully ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident. We remain committed to transparency and accountability, and findings will be made available in due course,” it said.
The remains of the deceased have been deposited at Kubwa General Hospital, while authorities reaffirmed their commitment to reviewing security operations to better protect civilians.
