A somber incident unfolded in Yola, the capital city of Adamawa state, as a female soldier enforcing the curfew imposed by the state government inadvertently shot and killed a senior colleague at a checkpoint. The tragic event occurred during an altercation with civilians, adding to the tension brought about by the curfew imposed by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri in response to recent incidents of looting and unrest.
Sources revealed that the female soldier, identified as Lance Corporal Nkiru, was involved in a dispute with civilians at the Fire Service Round About checkpoint. She was reportedly adamant about enforcing the curfew, even when motorists identified themselves as essential workers on duty. A captain attempted to intervene in the situation, but before any resolution could be reached, the female soldier, who had already cocked her rifle, accidentally discharged the firearm, fatally wounding the senior colleague.
The victim was immediately rushed to the Federal Medical Centre in Yola, where his unfortunate passing was confirmed. The incident has left the community in shock, raising questions about the handling of civilian interactions during curfew enforcement.
The female soldier, who has reportedly been accused of aggressive behavior towards civilians on previous occasions, was promptly apprehended by fellow soldiers and taken into custody. The tragedy has sparked concerns about the use of firearms in civilian confrontations and the need for proper training and protocols in such situations.
The incident highlights the challenges faced by security personnel tasked with enforcing curfews and maintaining order during times of unrest. It also underscores the importance of effective communication and de-escalation techniques to prevent such unfortunate events.
As the investigation into the incident unfolds, the focus turns to understanding the circumstances that led to the accidental shooting and the measures that can be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The Commander of the 23 Armoured Brigade Yola, Brigadier General Muhammad Gambo, has called for journalists to seek written appointments before any official statements are made, reflecting the seriousness and sensitivity of the situation.
The tragic loss of a senior colleague serves as a reminder of the risks and complexities involved in maintaining law and order, especially in challenging and high-pressure environments. The incident serves as a call for improved training, communication, and accountability in the actions of security personnel during such critical times.
