Key Takeaways
- An officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Deputy Superintendent Onoja Samuel, was arrested in Kubwa Market, Abuja.
- Samuel allegedly fired gunshots into the air following a dispute involving his wife and traders.
- The incident, which occurred on October 28, 2026, led to the recovery of a CZ pistol and 17 rounds of 9mm ammunition.
- The FCT Police Command emphasized the critical need for inter-agency coordination to prevent avoidable clashes and ensure public safety.
- The suspect remains in police custody and is expected to be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Onoja Samuel, a Deputy Superintendent of Corps (DSC) with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), following an incident involving the alleged discharge of a firearm in a public market. The arrest took place at Kubwa Market in Abuja after a distress call reported a man firing shots sporadically.
According to FCT Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Mohammed Sanusi, the incident unfolded on October 28, 2026, at approximately 1:50 pm. Police operatives attached to the Kubwa Division were swiftly deployed to the scene, where they successfully apprehended the suspect.
Preliminary investigations have shed light on the circumstances leading to the alarming event. Commissioner Sanusi disclosed that Samuel had reportedly gone to the market armed with a pistol after receiving information that some traders had assaulted his wife. During a subsequent argument with the traders, Samuel allegedly fired several shots into the air, causing panic among market-goers.
Upon his arrest, police operatives recovered a CZ pistol and 17 rounds of live 9mm ammunition from the NSCDC officer. This recovery underscores the seriousness of the alleged offense and the potential danger posed by the unauthorized discharge of firearms in a densely populated area.
Inter-Agency Cooperation and Public Safety Concerns
The incident has brought to the forefront critical issues surrounding the conduct of security personnel and the importance of inter-agency cooperation. Commissioner Sanusi used the briefing to reiterate a crucial directive to all sister security agencies operating within the FCT. He urged their personnel to exercise utmost restraint and to always notify the police divisions responsible for areas where they intend to conduct authorized operations.
This call for coordination is not merely a procedural formality; it is a vital measure designed to prevent avoidable clashes between different security outfits and, more importantly, to ensure the safety and security of FCT residents. Uncoordinated actions by armed personnel, regardless of their agency, can lead to confusion, escalate tensions, and pose significant risks to civilian lives.
The FCT Police Command has assured the public that Samuel remains in police custody and will be charged to court once investigations are concluded. This commitment to due process is essential for maintaining public trust in law enforcement and ensuring accountability across all security services.
Why This Matters
This incident highlights the critical importance of discipline and adherence to established protocols among all security personnel, especially concerning the use of firearms in public spaces. It underscores the need for robust inter-agency communication and cooperation to prevent dangerous situations, maintain public order, and reinforce the community's trust in those sworn to protect them.