Army Investigates Fatal Shooting of Civilian Abdulrahman Mustapha in Maiduguri
The Nigerian Army has launched an investigation into the fatal shooting of Abdulrahman Mustapha, a civilian killed by troops in Maiduguri, Borno State, on March 22. The incident, which occurred around 11:40 p.m. near the Polo axis close to the Federal High Court, has sparked widespread allegations of extrajudicial killing and calls for accountability.
Mustapha, locally known as Abchin, was reportedly unarmed and returning from a Sallah visit when he was shot. Social media posts have condemned the killing as a violation of constitutional rights, urging an independent probe and compensation for the victim’s family.
Lieutenant-Colonel Sani Uba, spokesperson for the Headquarters Theatre Command of Operation Hadin Kai, described the allegations as “very serious” and confirmed that an investigation is underway. He emphasized that preliminary findings suggest the incident may not be straightforward and could involve underlying security concerns.
According to the Army’s statement, initial reports indicate that troops may have encountered individuals suspected of being part of a Boko Haram or Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) reconnaissance team or sleeper cell. The statement claims Mustapha allegedly attempted to snatch a soldier’s rifle, which was interpreted as a hostile act posing a direct threat to the troops.
Further complicating the case, Mustapha was reportedly found carrying multiple identification cards bearing different names, including a foreign ID from Niger Republic, raising suspicions of cross-border movement or the use of false identities. Additionally, he was in possession of Tutolin syrup and several wraps of a substance suspected to be cannabis.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that Mustapha’s behavior prior to the incident was suspicious, prompting a distress call to the nearest military location. He was reportedly accompanied by two unidentified women who fled the scene, leading investigators to believe they may have been accomplices. Efforts are now underway to locate and question these individuals, as they could provide crucial information for ongoing security operations.
The Army has cautioned that these details are preliminary and subject to verification. The investigation aims to establish the full sequence of events, assess the actions of all parties involved, and determine whether troops adhered to the rules of engagement and operational procedures.
Lieutenant-Colonel Uba reiterated the Army’s commitment to professionalism and accountability, assuring the public that due process will be followed. He emphasized the military’s dedication to protecting human rights while maintaining security in the region.
This incident has reignited concerns about the conduct of security forces in Nigeria’s troubled North-east, where civilians often bear the brunt of the conflict with insurgent groups. Human rights organizations have long called for greater transparency and accountability in military operations to prevent civilian casualties and ensure justice for victims.
As the investigation unfolds, the Army has urged the public to avoid jumping to conclusions and to allow the inquiry to run its course. Meanwhile, Mustapha’s family and local communities await answers, hoping for clarity and justice in a case that has underscored the delicate balance between security and human rights in the region.
— Reported by Nexio News
