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The Nigerian Army, on Thursday, clarified reports concerning the alleged extrajudicial killing of Mr Abdulraham Mustapha by military personnel in Maiduguri, Borno State.
A statement by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, and titled “Re: Alleged Extrajudicial Killing of Mr Abdulraham Mustapha by Military Personnel”, said the attention of the Headquarters Theatre Command, Operation HADIN KAI, had been drawn to posts circulating on social media alleging that on March 22, 2026, troops shot and killed one Abdulrahman Mustapha (also referred to as Abchin) at the Polo Axis near the Federal High Court, Maiduguri.
The statement noted that the posts characterise the incident as an extrajudicial killing, alleging violations of constitutional rights, lack of transparency, and improper handling of the deceased.
It said the Theatre Command regarded these allegations as very serious and had accordingly initiated appropriate processes to establish the facts.
It further stated that preliminary operational indicators suggested the incident, which reportedly occurred at about 11:40 pm, may not be straightforward and could have underlying security implications.
“A comprehensive and impartial investigation is currently ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident, including compliance with the applicable Rules of Engagement and operational procedures,” it said.
According to the statement, initial findings indicated the possibility that troops may have encountered individuals consistent with a Boko Haram/ISWAP reconnaissance element or a sleeper cell operating within the area.
“This assessment is based on several factors, including reports that the individual in question allegedly attempted to snatch a soldier’s rifle, an action indicative of hostile intent and a direct threat to troops’ safety.
“Additionally, the individual was reportedly found in possession of multiple identification cards bearing different names from that cited in the petition, including a foreign identification card from the Niger Republic, which may suggest cross-border movement, possible infiltration, or the use of a decoy identity.
“Furthermore, he was found in possession of a bottle of Tutolin Syrup and several wraps of weed suspected to be Cannabis Sativa.
“Furthermore, the individual was reportedly in the company of two unidentified women who fled the scene, raising concerns about possible accomplices who are currently at large.
“Eyewitness accounts also suggest that the individual’s conduct prior to the incident was suspicious, prompting a distress call to the nearest military location.
“These preliminary details remain subject to verification and should not be construed as definitive conclusions. The ongoing investigation will seek to clarify all aspects of the incident, including the sequence of events, the actions of all parties involved, and any relevant operational context.
“All relevant components of OPHK have also been directed to intensify efforts to identify and apprehend the fleeing individuals, as they may provide critical information relevant to ongoing security operations.
“The Theatre Command assures the public that due process will be followed and that any findings will be addressed in accordance with applicable laws and military regulations,” the statement said.
Nigerian Army responds to alleged extrajudicial killing in Borno
