Kaduna, Nigeria – August 6, 2024 – In a somber visit marked by deep empathy and a commitment to justice, Major General Lander Seraso, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 1 Division in Kaduna, visited the Sarkin Pawa community in Samaru Zaria to offer his heartfelt condolences. This visit comes in the wake of a tragic incident involving a soldier that resulted in the death of a local resident, Muhammed Ismail.
A renowned security analyst and counterinsurgency expert, Zagazola took to his official social media X channel to announce the visit of Major General Seraso at the community, Saraso express sorrow over the incident. Addressing the grieving community, he explained that he had been conducting a routine patrol to ensure public safety in Kaduna and other parts of the country when he received news of the unfortunate event.
“One of my soldiers, deployed to safeguard public safety, unfortunately fired a shot that led to the untimely death of Muhammed Ismail,” Major General Seraso stated solemnly.
Upon learning of the incident, Major General Seraso immediately contacted the Commander of Bassawa, who was initially unaware of the event. He directed the commander to take the victim to the hospital, not knowing that Muhammed Ismail had already passed away. Furthermore, he instructed the commander to meet with the victim’s family, the youth, and residents of the community to offer condolences and assure them that a thorough inquiry would be conducted to establish the facts and hold the responsible personnel accountable.
“Now that a precious life has been lost, the Commanding Officer informed me he was present for the funeral prayers. I decided to come personally to console you in my capacity as the GOC and to extend the heartfelt condolences of the Chief of Army Staff, who is fully aware of the situation. We have also extended our condolences to the Emir of Samaru, the LGA chairman, and the family members of the deceased,” Major General Seraso conveyed.
In a poignant plea, Major General Seraso urged the community not to view the soldier’s actions as an intentional attempt by the Nigerian Army to harm innocent citizens. “We are deeply sorry, and I beg you in the name of God to forgive us. This loss is not just for you but for all of us. There was no intention to inflict harm or take a life. The operation was carried out with the goal of protecting lives and property,” he emphasized.
To ensure a transparent and thorough investigation, the Nigerian Army has constituted a Board of Inquiry (BOI) to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident. The deceased’s family members and other youths in the area have been informed about the need for witnesses to come forward and testify. Recognizing the challenges witnesses may face due to the curfew, Major General Seraso has directed the Commanding Officer to arrange for the Board to sit in Samaru, preferably close to the scene of the incident.
In a gesture of solidarity and support, the GOC is sending a delegation led by the 1 Division Chief Imam to attend the three-day prayers to be held tomorrow. The delegation will present food items and drinks to the deceased’s family, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to standing with the community during this difficult time.
Major General Seraso’s visit and the subsequent actions taken by the Nigerian Army underscore a profound commitment to accountability, justice, and healing for the Samaru community.
PIONEER NEWS 