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 on Friday, the Command said its attention was drawn to social media reports claiming that soldiers shot and killed Mustapha, also known as Abchin, on March 22, 2026, at the Polo axis near the Federal High Court, Maiduguri. The reports alleged that the deceased, said to be unarmed and returning from a Sallah visit, was a victim of an extrajudicial killing, with calls for accountability and an independent probe.
Describing the allegations as serious, the military authorities said preliminary steps had been taken to ascertain the facts surrounding the incident, which reportedly occurred at about 11:40 p.m.
According to the Command, early operational indicators suggest the circumstances may be more complex than initially portrayed, with possible underlying security concerns. It noted that an ongoing, comprehensive investigation would determine the sequence of events and whether troops acted in line with established Rules of Engagement and operational procedures.
Preliminary findings, the statement said, point to the possibility that troops encountered individuals suspected to be part of a Boko Haram or ISWAP reconnaissance team or sleeper cell operating in the area.
The Command disclosed that the deceased was alleged to have attempted to seize a soldier’s rifle—an action it described as a direct threat to personnel. It further stated that multiple identification cards bearing different names, including a foreign identification from the Niger Republic, were recovered from him, raising concerns about possible cross-border activity or the use of false identities.
Additional items reportedly found in his possession included a bottle of Tutolin syrup and substances suspected to be cannabis. The Command also indicated that the individual was said to have been in the company of two unidentified women who fled the scene and are currently being sought.
Eyewitness accounts cited by the military suggested that the deceased exhibited suspicious behaviour prior to the incident, which allegedly prompted a distress call to a nearby military post.
The Command, however, cautioned that these details remain preliminary and subject to verification, stressing that they do not constitute definitive conclusions.
It added that all relevant units have been directed to intensify efforts to track down the fleeing individuals, who may provide critical information for ongoing security operations.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and accountability, the Theatre Command assured the public that due process would be followed and that any outcome of the investigation would be handled in accordance with the law and military regulations.
Operation HADIN KAI reiterated its resolve to uphold professional standards and human rights while continuing its mandate of safeguarding lives and maintaining security in the North-East.
