By Nkechi Eze
A tragic security incident in Abuja has claimed the life of a serving National Youth Service Corps member, Mr. Abdulsamad Jamiu, following an exchange of gunfire between troops of the Guards Brigade and suspected armed robbers in the Dei-Dei area of the Federal Capital Territory.
According to an official signed statement by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters Guards Brigade, Lieutenant Olawuyi Odunola, the incident occurred in the early hours of 25 April 2026 at Shagari Estate, Dei-Dei, when troops on routine night patrol responded to a distress call over an ongoing armed robbery attack.
The statement disclosed that upon arrival at the scene, the Guards Brigade Quick Response Group came under fire from fleeing suspects, leading to a brief but intense gun battle as troops engaged the attackers in a bid to protect residents and restore order.
In the course of the exchange, Mr. Abdulsamad Jamiu was caught in the crossfire and sustained fatal injuries. Despite efforts by the troops to secure the area and preserve lives, he was later confirmed dead, casting a pall over the military formation and the wider community.
Preliminary findings indicate that the situation was highly volatile, with troops acting swiftly to repel the armed robbers and prevent further harm to residents within the estate.
The Commander, Guards Brigade, alongside officers and soldiers, has extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, the National Youth Service Corps, and all those affected by the loss, describing the incident as deeply regrettable.
The Brigade has since commenced a comprehensive investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding the tragedy, assuring that the process will be guided by transparency and accountability, with findings to be made public in due course.
The remains of the deceased have been handed over to appropriate civil authorities and deposited at Kubwa General Hospital.
The Guards Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of lives and property within the Federal Capital Territory, noting that operational procedures will continue to be reviewed to enhance civilian safety, even as troops confront criminal elements.
Residents have been urged to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as efforts continue to ensure safety and maintain public order across the territory.
