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The Headquarters Theatre Command of Operation HADIN KAI has launched an investigation into the controversial killing of a man, Abdulrahman Mustapha, in Maiduguri, following widespread allegations of extrajudicial action by troops.

The incident, which reportedly occurred on March 22 near the Polo axis close to the Federal High Court, has sparked outrage on social media.

It was alleged that Mustapha, also known as Abchin, was unarmed and returning from a Sallah visit when he was shot dead by military personnel.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North East), Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, described the allegations as serious, confirming that an investigation was underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

According to the statement, Mustapha might have attempted to snatch a soldier’s rifle, an act the military described as a direct threat to troops.

However, the military indicated that initial findings suggest the situation may be more complex than portrayed.

According to the Theatre Command, preliminary operational indicators point to possible security concerns, including suspicions that the deceased may have been linked to a Boko Haram or ISWAP reconnaissance group or sleeper cell.

“Initial findings indicate 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,” part of the statement read.

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