Residents of Barikallahu, a community near the Air Force Institute of Technology in Kaduna State, are living in fear after a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) officer allegedly led an assault that claimed one life and injured two others.

The incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Wednesday and was captured in multiple videos that have since gone viral. The footage showed a military vehicle bearing the NAF logo arriving in the area, with five armed personnel, apart from the driver, stepping out of the vehicle.

In one of the videos, residents were seen fleeing as the armed officers advanced. One clip showed the personnel apprehending a man and beating him while others inside the vehicle shouted in pidgin English, “Put am inside, put am inside” (Put him inside). Another video captured the officers firing sporadically into the air before the recording ended abruptly.

A separate video revealed a crowd mourning the deceased victim. A resident, speaking anonymously for fear of reprisal, claimed the attack stemmed from a personal dispute between a NAF personnel and a local resident over a woman. According to the source, the officer returned to the community with his colleagues, leading to a violent altercation.

“The soldier and his colleagues started beating people, shooting into the air, and chasing everyone. Unfortunately, the person who died knew nothing about the whole incident. He was hit by a stray bullet and died,” the resident said.

The source added that two others were injured, one with a shoulder wound and another with a leg injury. Both victims are currently receiving treatment in the hospital.

Another eyewitness described the situation as chaotic. “The soldiers entered our area, killed one person, and injured two others. They were just shooting anyhow. I saw the boy die right in front of me,” he said.

In response, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, spokesperson for the Air Force, confirmed the incident and assured the public of an ongoing investigation.

“The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) confirms that an incident involving its personnel and some civilians occurred on February 26, 2025, at Unguwan Gangare, Barikallahu, Kaduna State. The unfortunate incident resulted in injuries to some individuals, who are currently receiving medical care at the 461 NAF Hospital.

“Additionally, we deeply regret the loss of a life and have reached out to the family of the deceased to express our condolences and assure them of a thorough investigation and justice.

“The NAF remains a highly disciplined and professional force committed to upholding the highest standards of conduct in all engagements. Any personnel found culpable will face the full weight of the law,” he said.He urged residents to remain calm as the investigation continues.

the guardian