A grieving father in Zaria claims soldiers killed his 19-year-old son, Ismail Mohammed, during a protest. Malam Mohammed alleges that soldiers followed his son home and shot him through the door.
“My son was outside when the soldiers started shooting. He ran inside and locked the door, but they followed and shot through it,” Mohammed recounted. He received the devastating news while away and returned home an hour later to find his son dead.
The Nigerian Army has promised to investigate the incident. Maj.-Gen. MLD Saraso, General Officer Commanding (GOC), 1 Division, Nigerian Army, Kaduna, visited the family to offer condolences and addressed local youths. Saraso assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted, urging anyone with evidence to come forward.
“This incident is unfortunate,” Saraso said. “We urge the community to live in peace and abide by the law.”
The boy’s mother, Zainab Sani, described the event. “Around 9 a.m., Ismail was playing with friends in front of our house when soldiers approached. They ran inside and shut the gate, but a soldier shot at it, killing Ismail.”
She added that Ismail had just completed his final secondary school exams and was seeking college admission. The tragedy has left the family in shock and demanding justice.
Community Outcry and Army’s Response
The death has sparked outrage in the Zaria community. Residents are calling for accountability and justice for the young boy. The family and neighbors are traumatized by the sudden and violent loss.
Maj.-Gen. Saraso, during his visit, emphasized the importance of peace and legal processes. “We will ensure a fair investigation,” he stated. He also appealed to the community to maintain calm and avoid escalating tensions.
The army’s promise to investigate has provided some hope, but trust remains fragile. The community wants swift action and transparency. Many are skeptical about the outcome, fearing a cover-up or delayed justice.
Government and Military Accountability
The incident highlights the ongoing issues of military-civilian relations in Nigeria. Allegations of excessive force and unlawful killings by security forces are not uncommon. This case underscores the need for reforms and strict adherence to rules of engagement.
The Nigerian government faces pressure to address these concerns. Ensuring that the military operates within the law is crucial for maintaining public trust. The government must demonstrate commitment to protecting citizens’ rights and holding those who violate them accountable.
Family’s Pursuit of Justice
The Mohammed family is determined to seek justice for Ismail. They are calling for an independent investigation and accountability for the soldiers involved. The family believes that without pressure, the case might be dismissed or forgotten.
Community support has been overwhelming. Neighbors and local organizations are rallying behind the family, organizing peaceful protests and advocacy campaigns. They demand that the government and military take concrete steps to prevent such incidents in the future.
Looking Ahead
The tragic death of Ismail Mohammed serves as a stark reminder of the need for reform in Nigeria’s security forces. Ensuring that incidents like this are thoroughly investigated and addressed is essential for justice and community trust.
The Nigerian Army’s response will be closely watched. Transparency, accountability, and swift justice are crucial. The community’s support for the Mohammed family highlights the collective demand for change.
Source: Vanguard
