Residents of Barikallahu, a community near the Air Force Institute of Technology in Kaduna State, are now living in palpable fear after a soldier from the Nigerian Air Force invaded the area, killing one person and injuring two others on Wednesday night.
The incident, which occurred at around 10 p.m., was captured in multiple videos that have now gone viral.
The footage showed a vehicle painted in military camouflage colors, bearing the NAF logo, arriving in the community.
Five armed personnel, apart from the driver, were seen stepping out of the vehicle.
In one of the videos, residents were seen fleeing as the soldiers advanced.
One clip showed the personnel apprehending a man and beating him while others inside the vehicle shouted in pidgin English, “Put am inside, put am inside” (Put him inside).
Another video captured the soldiers firing sporadically into the air before the recording was abruptly cut.
A separate video showed a large crowd mourning the deceased victim.
Speaking anonymously due to fear of reprisal, a resident said that the NAF personnel had been aggressive toward residents before Wednesday’s incident.
The resident claimed that a NAF personnel who had an issue with a resident because of a woman mobilized his colleagues to the community.
“This happened at a village not far from the Air Force Institute of Technology in Kaduna. Before this incident, residents had a lot to say about the aggressiveness of the soldiers. There was a time when a curfew was introduced in this area, and people were told not to go out. We were watching football when the soldiers came and scattered everywhere; people’s properties went missing, among other things.
“Yesterday’s attack started because of a fight between a soldier and a resident over a woman. The soldier later returned with his colleagues, and they started beating people, shooting into the air, and chasing everyone.
“Unfortunately, the person that was killed knew nothing about the whole thing. He was hit by a bullet shot by the soldiers and died. The two others were shot—one in his shoulder, the other in his leg. They are presently in the hospital. It was a tragic incident that has caused panic in the whole community.”
Another eyewitness, who also requested anonymity, described the chaos.
“The soldiers entered our area, killed one person, and injured two others. They were just shooting anyhow. I saw the boy die right in front of me,” he said.
Reacting in a statement, Air Force spokesman, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, confirmed that an investigation was ongoing.
His words: “The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) confirms that an incident involving its personnel and some civilians occurred on 26 February 2025, at Unguwan Gangare, Barakallahu, Kaduna State. The unfortunate incident resulted in injuries to some individuals, who are currently receiving medical care at the 461 NAF Hospital.
“Additionally, we deeply regret the loss of a life and have reached out to the family of the deceased to express our condolences and assure them of a thorough investigation and justice.
“The NAF remains a highly disciplined and professional force committed to upholding the highest standards of conduct in all engagements. A full investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident is already underway. Any personnel found culpable will face the full weight of the law in line with our commitment to justice and accountability.
“We urge members of the public to remain calm as we work diligently to ascertain the facts and ensure that appropriate actions are taken. The NAF remains steadfast in its duty to protect and serve the Nigerian people while maintaining the trust and confidence of our host communities.”
