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According to his devastated sister, Numdarai Joy Wulumba, her brother had reached out to her on May 4, 2025, to inform her of his detention.
The Nigerian Air Force Command in Bauchi State is making frantic efforts to cover up the incident of an officer, Wulumba A.S., who died in the guardroom after he was detained for arriving late to duty due to an illness, SaharaReporters has learnt.
SaharaReporters gathered that Wulumba, a member of the 2003 regular intake and attached to the elite Special Operations Command (SOC) in Bauchi, passed away while being held in the guardroom on the orders of his commanding officer, one Group Captain Ofile.
His service number was NAF 03/21103.
According to his devastated sister, Numdarai Joy Wulumba, her brother had reached out to her on May 4, 2025, to inform her of his detention.
He had reported late to his duty post after suffering health complications, but despite explaining his condition, the Commander allegedly ignored his plea and ordered his detention.
“My late brother called me that day to say he was being sent to the guardroom. He said 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 yesterday (Friday) that he was dead,” Numdarai recounted tearfully in an interview with SaharaReporters.
She further expressed disbelief and outrage over the military’s handling of the situation.
“I’ve lived near military formations all my life. I know the rules. Detention for minor offences like lateness is not supposed to exceed 24 hours. He should have been court-martialled if necessary — not locked up indefinitely. Now he’s gone. Let them enjoy the consequences.”
Wulumba A.S., a father of four, leaves behind a grieving mother, wife, and only sister.
His family is now demanding justice and calling on President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian military high command to immediately investigate the cause and circumstances of his death.
“We want answers. He served this country for over 20 years. Is this how they treat their own?” she cried.
When SaharaReporters contacted the spokesperson for the Air Force in Bauchi, Flight Lieutenant Ogili Friday Miracle, his response was dismissive and raised further questions about transparency.
“I don’t have any information — we’re on holiday now,” he said flatly.
Pressed further on whether it was acceptable for such a grave incident to go unnoticed by the military, the spokesperson said, “If you want information, go to the family. I have nothing to give you.”
The family alleged that Wulumba’s death was avoidable and vowed to pursue justice until those responsible are held accountable.
This incident adds to growing concerns over the welfare and human rights of personnel within Nigeria’s security forces, particularly those who speak out or report challenges.
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