A police constable, identified as Ukasha Muhammed (Force Number 533164), has been shot dead by a soldier following an argument at a security checkpoint in Bauchi State, sparking outrage and calls for an immediate investigation into the incident.
According to eyewitnesses, the tragic event occurred on Friday evening at a joint military–police checkpoint along the Bauchi–Gombe Road, when a misunderstanding reportedly broke out between the deceased officer and a soldier on duty. The altercation quickly escalated, resulting in the soldier opening fire on the police constable at close range.
Residents and motorists in the area fled the scene as the gunshot caused panic. The victim was rushed to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, where he was confirmed dead on arrival.
The Bauchi State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement released on Saturday by its spokesperson, Superintendent Ahmed Wakil, who described the shooting as “unfortunate and deeply regrettable.” Wakil said the Command was in contact with military authorities to ensure that justice is served.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Auwal Musa, has ordered a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Police Constable Ukasha Muhammed. We are working closely with the Nigerian Army to ensure that the perpetrator is identified, detained, and prosecuted according to the law,” the statement read.
The Nigerian Army’s 33 Artillery Brigade, Bauchi, also confirmed awareness of the incident. A senior military source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said preliminary findings suggest a “misunderstanding between personnel” but assured that the soldier involved has been taken into custody pending investigation.
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Security analysts have raised concerns over the recurring cases of friction between members of Nigeria’s security agencies, particularly at joint operations and checkpoints. They have called for better inter-agency coordination and conflict management training to prevent further loss of lives.
The remains of Constable Muhammed have been deposited at the hospital morgue, while both the Police and Army have pledged to handle the matter transparently.
This latest incident adds to a growing list of clashes between police and military personnel across the country, prompting renewed calls for restraint, professionalism, and improved synergy among Nigeria’s security forces.