Customs officer: How my colleagues shot me, driver in Jigawa

A Superintendent Officer of Nigeria Customs Service, Muhammad Inuwa Sayyadi, has escaped from sporadic gunshots from his colleagues around Gari in the Garki Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

Narrating his ordeal after he was discharged from the hospital where surgery operation was conducted on him to remove bullets from his head, Sayyadi, who is one of the Sons of Emir of Ringim, disclosed that the incident occurred on May 26.

He said: “I was coming from Babura entering Gari when we suddenly heard some people stoning us with sticks and cutlasses.

“I asked my driver to stop but as we prepared to stop we just heard sporadic gunfire on us and as I moved I was hit on the head while my car engine was heavily shot at.

“Realising, I was shot at, I managed to come down and collected a Turban from one of those we are travelling with and tied my head while blood was gushing out. That was how I was rushed to nearby Gari hospital.”

Sayyadi disclosed added that he assumed he was attacked by bandits but only for him to see his colleagues’ operational vehicle while those firing at them were not in uniforms.

“When we enquired we understand that they are Boarder Grill Patrol with police, Immigration, and his Customs colleagues, and according to my findings those who shot at me were my colleagues,” he added,

The Customs officer further revealed that he was moved from Gari Hospital to Mallam Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital where surgery was conducted on him and the bullet was removed.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of Kano/Jigawa Customs Service, Nura Said, stated: “We regret the unfortunate incident that took place on Friday the 26th of May 2023 at Garki Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

He said: “Our hearts go out to all those affected by this tragic event, and we extend our deepest empathy to the family and friends of the victim.

“We assured that the management will fully investigate the incident to determine the causes and circumstances.

“We would like to remind everyone that the Service rests utmost importance on responsible firearm handling. Accidental shootings are preventable tragedies as all officers are consciously trained to secure and only use their firearms inappropriate and controlled environments.

“We will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available.”

The Star

Segun Ojo