The Headquarters Theatre Command of Operation Hadin Kai has launched an investigation into allegations that troops shot and killed one Abdulrahman Mustapha, also called Abchin, in Maiduguri.
The incident, which reportedly occurred on March 22, 2026, on the Polo axis close to the Federal Excessive Courtroom, has sparked outrage on social media, with claims that the sufferer was unarmed and coming back from a Sallah go to on the time.
In a press release, the Media Info Officer of the Joint Process Power North-East, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, described the allegations as critical and confirmed that an investigation had commenced to determine the information.
He famous that the claims embody accusations of extrajudicial killing, violation of constitutional rights, lack of transparency, and improper dealing with of the deceased.
The Theatre Command, nevertheless, mentioned preliminary operational findings recommend the incident could contain underlying safety considerations.
In response to the assertion, the incident occurred at about 11:40 p.m., and preliminary studies point out that troops could have encountered people suspected to be a part of a Boko Haram or ISWAP reconnaissance group or a sleeper cell working within the space.
It was additional alleged that the deceased tried to grab a soldier’s rifle, an act thought-about a direct threat to navy personnel.
The assertion added that the person was discovered with a number of identification playing cards bearing totally different names, together with a overseas ID from the Niger Republic, suggesting potential cross-border motion or the usage of an assumed id.
He was additionally reportedly in possession of a bottle of Tutolin syrup and substances suspected to be hashish.
In response to the navy, the deceased was accompanied by two unidentified girls who fled the scene, elevating considerations about potential accomplices nonetheless at giant.
Eyewitness accounts additionally prompt that his behaviour earlier than the incident appeared suspicious, prompting a misery name to close by troops.
The navy emphasised that these findings are preliminary and topic to verification, including that efforts are ongoing to find the fleeing people who could present additional readability.
The Theatre Command assured that the investigation can be thorough, neutral and performed according to established Guidelines of Engagement and navy procedures.
It reaffirmed its dedication to professionalism, accountability and the safety of human rights.
Linus Aleke in Abuja
Times Nigeria