Esther Salifu
Residents of Barikallahu, a community near the Air Force Institute of Technology in Kaduna State, are gripped by fear following a violent assault by Nigerian Air Force personnel on Wednesday night. The attack, which took place around 10 p.m., left one person dead and two others injured.
A viral online video captures a vehicle painted in military camouflage, displaying the NAF logo, arriving in the community. Five armed personnel, in addition to the driver, are seen stepping out, causing residents to flee as the soldiers move forward.
The soldiers were seen apprehending a man, 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 resident, who spoke anonymously due to fear of reprisal, claimed that the NAF personnel had been aggressive to residents before Wednesday’s incident. The resident alleged that the attack started because of a fight between a soldier and a resident over a woman.
The Air Force spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, confirmed that an investigation is ongoing. “Investigation is ongoing as we speak. The Kaduna Base Commander is currently engaging with the affected community,” Akinboyewa stated.
The residents of Barikallahu are demanding justice for the victims, especially their slain colleague, Godwin. A flyer designed for the victim reads, “We want justice for Godwin.”
