The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has suspended one of its officers, Deputy Superintendent of Corps Onoja Babayo Samuel, following his alleged involvement in a shooting incident at Kubwa Market in Abuja.
The corps also ordered an internal disciplinary trial to determine the officer’s level of culpability in the incident, which reportedly occurred on October 25, 2026, during a confrontation between the officer and some traders.
The development follows the officer’s arrest by the Federal Capital Territory Police Command over allegations that he fired several gunshots into the air during an argument at the market.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the NSCDC’s National Public Relations Officer, Babawale Afolabi, the corps said the officer had been suspended pending the conclusion of disciplinary proceedings.
What Led to the Shooting?
According to the police, Samuel allegedly went to the market armed with a pistol after receiving reports that some traders had assaulted his wife.
A subsequent argument reportedly broke out between the officer and the traders, during which he allegedly fired several shots into the air.
The FCT Police Command said its operatives responded to a distress call, disarmed the suspect and arrested him.
A CZ pistol and 17 rounds of live 9mm ammunition were reportedly recovered during the arrest.
The police added that the officer remained in custody and would be charged in court after investigations were concluded.
NSCDC Orders Internal Investigation
The NSCDC described the alleged conduct as a serious violation of its rules of engagement and standard operating procedures, particularly those governing the use of firearms.
The Commandant-General, Ahmed Abubakar Audi, directed the officer’s immediate suspension and ordered an Orderly Room Trial alongside a review by the corps’ disciplinary committee at its national headquarters in Abuja.
As part of the suspension, Samuel has been relieved of his official duties and responsibilities while the investigation continues.
The corps said the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings would be made public when the process is completed.
Corps Warns Against Misuse of Firearms
Audi reiterated the NSCDC’s commitment to professional conduct, public safety and accountability, stressing that personnel would not be shielded from appropriate disciplinary action if found to have violated operational guidelines.
The incident has also raised questions about the conduct of security personnel in public spaces and the need for restraint when disputes arise.
The investigation is expected to establish the full circumstances surrounding the shooting and determine whether the officer breached the law or internal regulations.
For now, the allegations against Samuel remain subject to the outcome of the police investigation and the NSCDC’s disciplinary process.
