GOC 1 Division Condoles with Samaru Community Over Shooting of a Minor by a Soldier - Sets a Board of Inquiry to Investigate the Incident
*By: Zagazola Makama*
Kaduna, Nigeria - August 6, 2024 - Major General Lander Saraso, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division of the Nigerian Army in Kaduna, visited the Sarkin Pawa community in Samaru Zaria to offer condolences following a tragic incident involving a soldier that fired a shot which resulted in the death of a local resident, Muhammed Ismail.
Addressing the community, Major General Saraso explained that he had been conducting a patrol to ensure public safety in Kaduna and other parts of the state when he was informed about the unfortunate incident. "One of my soldiers, deployed to ensure public safety, unfortunately fired a shot that led to the death of Muhammed Ismail," he said.
Upon learning of the incident, Major General Saraso immediately contacted the Commander of Basawa Military Barracks, who was unaware of the event at that time. He directed the commander to take the victim to the hospital, not knowing that Muhammed Ismail had already passed away. He also instructed the commander to meet with the victim's family, the youths and residents of the community to express his condolence and convey that an inquiry would be conducted to establish the facts and hold the personnel responsible for the shooting accountable.
The GOC stated, "now that a life is lost, the Commanding Officer informed me that he was going to be present for the funeral prayers. I also decided to come personally to condole you in my capacity as the GOC and to extend the heartfelt condolence of the Chief of Army Staff, who is also fully aware of the situation. We have extended the same condolences to the District Head of Samaru, the Sabon Gari LGC Chairman, and the family members of the deceased."
Major General Saraso also pleaded with the community, emphasizing that the soldier's action should not be seen as an intentional attempt by the Nigerian Army to kill innocent citizens. "We are sorry, and I am begging you in the name of God, we are sorry. This loss is not just for you alone but for all of us. There was no intention to inflict harm or kill anyone. The operation was carried out with the intention to protect lives and properties," he concluded.
The Nigerian Army has already constituted a Board of Inquiry (BOI) to investigate 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. Due to the curfew and potential difficulties witnesses may face in reaching the board sitting in Basawa Barracks, Major General Saraso has directed the Commanding Officer to re-arrange for the Board to sit in Samaru, preferably close to the scene of the incident.
Additionally, the GOC will be sending a delegation to be led by the 1 Division Chief Imam to attend the three-day prayers on Friday 9th August 2024. The delegation will also be going with some food items and drinks to support the bereaved family in hosting visitors during the mourning period.
