Army must answer for corps member’s death — FCT Senator

FCT Senator Ireti Kingibe has called for a thorough and transparent investigation into the killing of National Youth Service Corps member Abdulsamad Jamiu by Nigerian Army personnel.

In a statement on Monday, Kingibe described the loss as heartbreaking and avoidable, saying preliminary accounts suggest the shooting may have been accidental but that the consequences remained devastating and irreversible.

“This painful loss is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for heightened caution and professionalism in all security operations,” she said.

The senator extended condolences to the family of the deceased, stressing that no parent should have to endure the pain of losing a child under such circumstances, particularly one who was serving the country under the NYSC scheme.

While acknowledging the army’s initial response to the incident, Kingibe said more must be done beyond immediate reactions, calling for accountability to ensure justice is served and lessons are learned.

She also used the incident to raise broader concerns about the safety of corps members and the need for systemic reforms within the country’s security architecture.

“This tragic occurrence underscores the urgent need to strengthen rules of engagement, improve coordination between security agencies and civilians, and ensure that our young Nigerians — especially corps members — are adequately protected at all times,” she said.

The senator pledged to engage relevant authorities to push for reforms aimed at safeguarding citizens and restoring public confidence in security institutions.