The father of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member allegedly shot dead by soldiers in Abuja, Engr. Sani Jimoh has revealed that his late son had aspired to join the Nigerian Army.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that the deceased, Jamiu, 24, was reportedly killed inside his room in Dakwa, Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, just weeks before completing his mandatory national service.
Speaking at the scene of the incident on Monday, the grieving father said his son had long harboured dreams of serving in the military.
“My son dreamed of joining the Nigerian Army, so I asked them to fulfill his wish by enlisting one of his younger brothers into the service. And definitely, there is a need for compensation,” he said.
He added that the family was seeking justice and support following the tragic incident.
Jimoh also narrated the circumstances surrounding his son’s death, citing an eyewitness account from within the household.
“A small girl living with us said she heard my son asking, ‘who is there, who is there,’ before they responded with gunshots toward his room,” he said.
The account has further heightened concerns over the circumstances that led to the fatal shooting.
Reacting to the development, the Nigerian Army confirmed that an investigation into the incident was ongoing.
“Investigation is ongoing as our press release stated. Once the investigation is concluded, you will be updated,” the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Guards Brigade, Lt. Olawuyi Odunola, said in a chat with one of our correspondents.
The killing has sparked outrage, with the bereaved family calling for accountability and appropriate compensation.