The Nigerian Air Force has reacted to the death of two residents of Mabera area of Sokoto metropolis, during a fight allegedly spearheaded by one of its officers whose girlfriend was taunted by youths in the beighbourhood.
Daily Nigerian reported that a truckload of airmen were deployed to the community after the lady reported the incident to her boyfriend. A student identified as Abdulsalam Lawan was killed after he fled to a nearby house alongside a 40-year-old mother of seven, Maryam Abdulrahman.
“They often come and brutalise us in this area. We were at a tea joint when they came last night around 8:30pm. They started by shooting sporadically and then asked the soldier’s girlfriend to point at those who taunted her.
“When she failed to identify the real culprits, they meted out frog jump punishment on us. Those who ran away were shot.
“At least five people sustained gunshot injuries while two people died,” an eyewitness, Sani Mabera said.
Reacting to the incident, NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information Ibikunle Daramola said they are currently investigating the clash between Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel and suspected Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) youths.
“NAF is investigating the matter with a view to ascertaining the facts as well as establishing the degree of involvement of its personnel”.
An online report alleged the unfortunate killing of 2 persons at Mabera Area of Sokoto Metropolis yesterday, 20 October 2019, as a result of a fracas between Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel and suspected Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) youths within the Community.
“However, details regarding the unfortunate incident, which also led to some NAF personnel sustaining serious injuries, are still sketchy.
“Consequently, the NAF is investigating the matter with a view to ascertaining the facts as well as establishing the degree of involvement of its personnel.
“It is pertinent to reiterate that the NAF is a highly disciplined and professional force that does not tolerate or condone acts of indiscipline or violations of human rights of citizens.
“Therefore, every NAF personnel found guilty of misdemeanor, in the past, had always been dealt with in accordance extant laws and the general public duly informed.
“We wish to assure the general public that, in line with the NAF’s usual practice, this case will be investigated thoroughly and appropriate action taken,” the statement read.