NAF Probes Death Of Officer Who Died In Guardroom
Authorities of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) say investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death of one of its personnel attached to Bauchi command, Late Corporal Wulumba A. S., have begun.
The late officer reportedly passed away while confined in a guardroom following his detention over late arrival to the duty post.
His lateness was attributed to health issues challenges he was battling with.
A family member of the officer, claimed that they were informed that the deceased was detained on May 4 after his explanations about his lateness were dismissed by the commanding officer.
“Our late brother told us that his offence was arriving late due to illness, but his commander wouldn’t listen. After that call, we never heard from him again — until we were told on Friday that he was dead.”
“Detention for minor offences like lateness is not supposed to exceed 24 hours according to the military rules. He should have been court-martialled if necessary, not locked up indefinitely. Now he’s gone,” one of the family members said.
Reacting to the incident, NAF authorities expressed sadness, while describing the incident as “unfortunate”, saying that the force would ensure it ascertain the circumstances that surrounded his death.
In a chat with Daily Trust on Tuesday morning, the NAF spokesman, Ehimen Ejodame, explained that the force had set up a Board of Inquiry to ascertain causes of his death.
Ejodame, an Air Commodore, said the force remains committed to the welfare of its personnel and upholding the highest standards of accountability and transparency.
“The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) deeply regrets to confirm the unfortunate passing of Corporal Wulumba AS. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
“The loss of any of our personnel is profoundly felt across the Service. In line with standard procedure, a Board of Inquiry has been convened to ascertain the circumstances surrounding his death.
“Further information will be provided as soon as the investigation progresses. The NAF remains committed to the welfare of its personnel and upholding the highest standards of accountability and transparency,” he told our correspondent.
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