In a startling incident earlier this week, Assistant Superintendent of Immigration (ASI) Christian Oladimeji became the unintended victim of a police firearm discharge during what authorities describe as a chaotic confrontation in the heart of Minna.
According to a detailed report from Zagazola Makama, a specialized publication covering counter-insurgency efforts around the Lake Chad region, the incident unfolded at approximately 12:30 PM on February 21st.
A routine surveillance patrol led by Ibrahim Paiko of the ‘A’ Division Police Command was abruptly disrupted near the Obasanjo complex.
The officers had responded to reports of suspected stolen iron rods, purportedly abandoned by a group of road construction workers upon the patrol’s approach.
Eyewitnesses recounted a sudden escalation when additional workers and unidentified hoodlums launched an aggressive assault on the officers, pelting them with stones and debris.
The ensuing turmoil also resulted in damage to the patrol vehicle, reportedly belonging to the Dangote Group.
“In an attempt to quell the escalating aggression and safeguard his team, Officer Ibrahim Audu discharged his firearm,” states Makama’s report, “tragically striking ASI Oladimeji, who was passing by on a motorcycle at that precise moment.”
The bullet inflicted a serious wound to Oladimeji’s lap, causing her to lose control and sustain further injuries upon impact with the ground.
Swiftly transported to the IBB Specialist Hospital, medical staff confirmed the absence of bullet fragments but diagnosed her with a significant waist fracture.
Currently, she remains under close medical supervision, with doctors expressing cautious optimism about her recovery prospects.
Authorities have responded swiftly to the incident, apprehending multiple suspects linked to the initial theft report for questioning.
Moreover, internal disciplinary measures have been initiated against the officers directly involved in the unfortunate discharge.
In a bid to assuage community concerns, local security officials have issued assurances of a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“We urge calm among residents as we work diligently to uphold law and order,” affirmed a security source familiar with the ongoing inquiry.
The incident has reignited conversations around police conduct during routine operations and underscores the inherent risks associated with maintaining public safety amidst escalating tensions.
As the investigation progresses, stakeholders anticipate further clarity on the actions to be taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
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