The Headquarters Theatre Command, Operation Hadin Kai, has commenced an investigation into allegations that its troops were involved in the killing of a civilian, Abdulrahman Mustapha, in Maiduguri, Borno State.
In a statement issued recently, the command said its attention had been drawn to social media reports alleging that the incident occurred on March 22, 2026, at the Polo axis near the Federal High Court in Maiduguri.
According to the reports, the deceased, also known as Abchin, was allegedly unarmed and was returning from a Sallah visit when he was shot by military personnel. The allegations described the incident as an extrajudicial killing and called for an independent investigation, accountability, and compensation for the victim’s family.
Reacting to the claims, Operation Hadin Kai said it considers the allegations serious and has already initiated processes to establish the facts surrounding the incident.
However, the military noted that preliminary operational indicators suggest the situation may involve underlying security concerns.
The command stated that the incident reportedly occurred at about 11:40 p.m., and initial findings indicate that troops may have encountered individuals suspected to be part of a Boko Haram or ISWAP reconnaissance group or sleeper cell operating in the area.
It further alleged that the deceased attempted to snatch a soldier’s rifle, an action it described as a direct threat to the safety of troops on duty.
According to the statement, the individual was also reportedly found with multiple identification cards bearing different names, including one from the Niger Republic.
Other items allegedly recovered from him included a bottle of Tutolin syrup and wraps of a substance suspected to be cannabis.
The military also disclosed that the deceased was reportedly in the company of two unidentified women who fled the scene.
It added that eyewitness accounts suggested the individual’s behaviour before the incident was considered suspicious, prompting a distress call to a nearby military location.
Operation Hadin Kai stressed that these details remain preliminary and subject to verification, noting that a comprehensive investigation is ongoing to establish the full sequence of events and determine whether the rules of engagement and operational procedures were followed.
The command said efforts are also underway to identify and apprehend the two fleeing individuals, who may provide crucial information relevant to the ongoing probe.
Reassuring the public, the theatre command said due process would be followed and that any findings from the investigation would be handled in accordance with the law and extant military regulations.
It reiterated its commitment to professionalism, accountability, and the protection of human rights while carrying out its security mandate in the North-East.
