NYSC mourns corps member killed in Abuja, family slams statement as aligning with military narrative

Crime Diary

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Management of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has expressed deep condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Corps Member Abdulsamad Jamiu (NS/25A/2904), who was allegedly killed during a military operation near his residence at Shagari Estate, Dei-Dei, Abuja, in the early hours of Sunday, April 26, 2026.

Until his death, Jamiu was serving at Government Junior Secondary School, Bakin Ado, Nasarawa State, where he contributed to national development under the scheme.

In a statement, the NYSC described the incident as deeply distressing and said it is engaging relevant security agencies to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the killing. The scheme reaffirmed its commitment to the safety, security, and welfare of corps members and staff nationwide, adding that efforts would be strengthened in collaboration with security and intelligence agencies to mitigate risks.

The NYSC also expressed solidarity with the bereaved family and prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased.

Meanwhile, a relative of the deceased, Abu Bakr, a medical radiographer, criticised the NYSC’s response, accusing the agency of delayed communication and aligning with what he described as a questionable account of the incident as provided by the army, which the family had vehemently rejected.

He argued that the NYSC’s statement appeared contradictory, noting that while it attributed the death to a military operation, it also stated that it was still investigating the circumstances.

“You claimed Abdulsamad was killed during a military operation, yet in the same breath said you are still ascertaining the full circumstances. So which is it?” he queried.

He further questioned the nature of the operation, asking for clarity on its designation, command structure, and outcomes, including whether any armed suspects were neutralized in the so-called ‘military operation’ which led to the death of the young man.

According to him, the issue goes beyond rhetoric and raises concerns about accountability, adding that the NYSC’s response suggests a failure to adequately defend the interests of corps members.