The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of late Corporal Wulumba A. S. attached to Bauchi Command.
Wulumba died in a guardroom after his detention for arriving late to the duty.
His lateness was attributed to health issues challenges he was battling with.
The NAF spokesperson Ehimen Ejodame, who revealed this said the authorities had set up a Board of Inquiry to ascertain causes of his death.
NAF authorities expressed sadness, while describing the incident as “unfortunate”, saying that the force would ensure it ascertain the circumstances that surrounded 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 said.
A family member of the officer said they were told that the deceased was detained on May 4 after the commanding officer rejected his explanations about his lateness.
“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.
