They Said It Was A Mistake” — Father Of Killed NYSC Member Reveals Sh*cking Military Claim

The grieving father, Sani Jimoh, made the claim on Monday after a delegation from the Nigerian Army visited the family to offer condolences and assess the scene of the incident.

The Guards Brigade had earlier stated that Jamiu was caught in a crossfire on April 25 when troops responded to a distress call about an armed robbery operation, explaining that soldiers exchanged fire with fleeing suspects during the operation.

According to the military account, troops came under attack from suspected armed robbers, leading to a brief but intense exchange of gunfire.

However, Jimoh told The Cable that what he was told during direct engagement with the soldiers differed from the official statement.

He alleged that the operatives informed him the incident was an error, quoting them as saying he should “calm down” because it was a mistake.

Jimoh explained that he and his wife were away in Kogi State for a burial when they received a distress call from their daughter around 2 a.m. informing them of the tragedy.

Recounting the soldiers’ version, he said they claimed they were pursuing suspected robbers who forced entry into the compound. According to him, the operatives said they believed someone had entered the premises while fleeing.

He further alleged that the soldiers gained access to the house and attempted to open his son’s room door during the operation.

Jimoh said they claimed an altercation occurred at the door before the fatal shooting happened.

The family, however, has rejected the military’s explanation, insisting that available evidence does not support the claim of a gunfight. They maintain that Jamiu was shot inside his room, raising questions about how the situation escalated.

Jimoh also stated that the Divisional Police Officer in Dei-Dei described the incident as an unfortunate mistake. He added that police authorities requested a written statement and undertaking before releasing the body for burial.