Dare Babalola
The Headquarters Theatre Command of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has arrested five persons in connection with the unlawful discharge of firearms during a social event in Maiduguri, Borno State, which led to the death of a young girl.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the military said the incident occurred on April 4, 2026, in the Ngomari area of the state.
According to the statement, the suspects were apprehended following a joint operation involving troops of Operation HADIN KAI and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
Uba explained that the incident happened during a wedding celebration at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Teachers Staff Quarters, where individuals identified as vigilantes attached to a local government chairman allegedly engaged in indiscriminate firing.
“The incident occurred at about 2:00 p.m. on 4 April, 2026, when vigilantes later identified as members of an escort team attached to the Chairman of a Local Government Area engaged in sporadic firing into the air during a wedding celebration,” he said.
He noted that the gunfire, though intended as celebratory, had tragic consequences.
“The reckless act led to the death of a young girl,” Uba stated.
Following the incident, security operatives swiftly tracked down and arrested five suspects linked to the shooting. They were identified as Muhammad Husaini (28), Abba Jiddu (25), Abba Kolo Mohammed (20), Ali Adam (20), and Nura Mohammed (18).
“Acting swiftly, troops traced and apprehended five suspects… The suspects are currently in custody and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with extant laws,” the statement added.
The Theatre Command condemned the act, describing it as a serious breach of established rules governing the use of firearms.
“The Theatre Command strongly condemns the act, describing it as highly unprofessional, unauthorised, and a clear violation of established regulations governing the handling and use of firearms,” Uba said.
He emphasised that members of the Civilian Joint Task Force are only permitted to operate in a supportive capacity and are not authorised to engage in indiscriminate use of weapons, especially in civilian settings.
“It reiterates that the Civilian Joint Task Force operates strictly as a support group and is not permitted to engage in indiscriminate use of firearms under any circumstances, particularly within civilian environments,” he added.
The military further disclosed that a full-scale investigation has been launched in collaboration with relevant authorities in the state.
“A comprehensive investigation has been initiated in collaboration with relevant state authorities… to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure that all those found culpable are brought to justice,” the statement said.
While assuring residents that the situation in the area remains under control, the command said troops have intensified surveillance to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
It also extended condolences to the family of the deceased and reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and enforcing accountability.
“The Theatre Command extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of civilians,” Uba said.
