Army Investigates Alleged Extra-Judicial Killing of Mustapha in Maiduguri
The Nigerian Army has initiated a formal investigation into the alleged extra-judicial killing of Abdulrahman Mustapha, also known as Abchin, in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State. The incident, which occurred on March 22, 2026, along Polo Road near the Federal High Court, has sparked widespread concern and calls for accountability from the public and social media users.
Allegations and Initial Response
According to a statement released by Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer for the North-East Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), the headquarters became aware of social media posts alleging that troops shot and killed Mustapha, who was reportedly unarmed and returning from a Sallah visit. The posts criticized the incident as an extrajudicial killing, citing violations of constitutional rights, lack of transparency, and improper handling of the deceased. In response, followers demanded an independent investigation, accountability, and compensation for the victim's family.
Lt.-Col. Uba emphasized that the Theatre Command, led by Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, takes these allegations very seriously and has commenced appropriate processes to establish the facts. He assured that a comprehensive and impartial investigation is ongoing to determine the full circumstances, including compliance with rules of engagement and operational procedures.
Preliminary Findings and Security Implications
However, preliminary operational indications suggest the incident, which reportedly took place at 11:40 p.m., may not be straightforward and could have underlying security implications. Initial findings indicate that troops may have encountered individuals consistent with Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) reconnaissance elements or a sleeper cell operating within the Polo community of Maiduguri.
The assessment is based on several factors:
- The individual allegedly attempted to snatch a soldier's rifle, an action interpreted as hostile intent and a direct threat to safety.
- Mustapha was found in possession of multiple identification cards bearing different names, including a foreign ID from the Niger Republic, suggesting possible cross-border movement, infiltration, or use of a decoy identity.
- He also had a bottle of Tutolin syrup and several wraps of suspected cannabis sativa.
- He was reportedly accompanied by two unidentified women who fled the scene, raising concerns about possible accomplices still at large.
Eyewitness accounts from the community further describe Mustapha's conduct as suspicious prior to the incident, prompting a distress call to the nearest military post in Maiduguri.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Assurance
Lt.-Col. Uba cautioned that these preliminary details remain subject to verification and should not be seen as definitive conclusions. The investigation aims to clarify all aspects, including the sequence of events, actions of involved parties, and relevant operational context. All OPHK components have been directed to intensify efforts to identify and apprehend the fleeing individuals, as they may provide critical information for ongoing security operations in the North-East.
Maj.-Gen. Abubakar has assured the public that due process will be followed, and findings will be addressed in accordance with applicable laws and military regulations. The Army reaffirms its commitment to professionalism and adherence to rules of engagement while addressing security challenges in the region.
