The Nigerian Army recently addressed a tragic incident on their official social media X platform, revealing the circumstances surrounding the death of a 16-year-old boy in Zaria. The Army’s statement detailed the events of August 6, 2024, when troops were dispatched in response to a distress call about a large gathering of individuals burning tires and throwing stones at security personnel in Samaru.
Upon the troops’ arrival to enforce the state-imposed curfew, the situation quickly escalated. The Army reported that the crowd became aggressive, prompting a soldier to fire a warning shot in an attempt to disperse the mob. Tragically, this action resulted in the death of 16-year-old Ismail Mohammed.
In the wake of this incident, the soldier involved has been detained and is currently undergoing interrogation.
Expressing deep sorrow over the unfortunate event, Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja has dispatched a high-powered delegation, led by General Officer Commanding 1 Division, Maj. Gen. Lander Saraso, to visit and offer condolences to the bereaved family.
The burial of the deceased, conducted in accordance with Islamic rites, was attended by senior military officers, underscoring the gravity of the incident and the Army’s commitment to addressing the situation.
Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, released the official statement on August 6, 2024, reflecting the Army’s position and the steps being taken in response to the tragic event.
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