The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has suspended an officer over an alleged shooting at Kubwa Market in Abuja.
The officer, identified as Onoja Babayo Samuel, was arrested after the incident on October 25, 2026. According to the FCT Police Command, the incident followed a confrontation involving the officer and traders.
Meanwhile, the NSCDC has ordered an internal disciplinary trial to determine the officer’s level of responsibility. The corps said the process would follow its rules and standard operating procedures.
In addition, the command said the officer had been relieved of his duties pending the outcome of the investigation. A committee at the NSCDC national headquarters in Abuja will handle the disciplinary proceedings.
The FCT Police Command said officers arrested Samuel after receiving a distress call about gunfire at Kubwa Market.
Police spokesperson Josephine Adeh said officers attached to the Kubwa Division responded to the scene. They then disarmed and arrested the suspect.
According to preliminary police findings, Samuel allegedly went to the market after receiving reports that traders had assaulted his wife. An argument reportedly followed. During the confrontation, he allegedly fired several shots into the air.
Police said they recovered a CZ pistol and 17 rounds of live 9mm ammunition from the suspect. However, the allegations remain subject to investigation.
Following the arrest, the NSCDC announced an internal investigation into the officer’s conduct. The disciplinary process will determine whether he breached the corps’ rules.
Furthermore, the corps said it would make the outcome public after the proceedings conclude. It also reaffirmed its commitment to professional conduct and public safety.
The incident has also raised concerns about coordination among security agencies in the Federal Capital Territory. Therefore, the FCT Police Commissioner urged personnel from other agencies to notify the relevant police divisions before conducting authorised operations.
Such coordination, authorities say, can help prevent misunderstandings and improve public safety.
The suspension does not amount to a criminal conviction. Instead, it allows the corps to investigate the allegations and determine the appropriate disciplinary action.
Meanwhile, the police investigation will establish the circumstances surrounding the reported shooting. Authorities may take further legal action after completing their inquiries.
For now, both the police investigation and the NSCDC disciplinary process remain important to determining the next steps in the case.
