The Chief Priest of the Zaar Kingdom in Bauchi State, Mbami Iliya Sabka, has issued a strong condemnation following the death of Nigerian Air Force officer Wulumba A.S. while in military custody, describing the incident as "a national shame and a brutal violation of human dignity."
In a statement titled 'Unlawful Detention and Death of Officer Wulumba A.S.: A Blatant Violation of Human Dignity and Zaar Heritage', Sabka called for an immediate, transparent, and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the officer's death.
Circumstances of the Detention
According to reports, Officer Wulumba, who had served in the Air Force for over 20 years, was detained on May 4, 2025, at the Special Operations Command (SOC) in Bauchi after arriving late to duty due to illness. The detention was reportedly ordered by Group Captain Ofile.
"Officer Wulumba was a loyal son of the Zaar people and a dedicated serviceman. His death in custody—after arriving late to duty due to illness and being ordered into a guardroom—is a gross and fatal injustice," Sabka stated.
The deceased officer, identified by Service No. NAF 03/21103, is survived by a wife and four children.
Constitutional Violations Alleged
Sabka emphasized that detaining an ailing officer for a minor disciplinary infraction without medical attention or due process constitutes a violation of Section 34(1)(a) of the 1999 Constitution, which protects citizens against torture and inhuman treatment.
The Chief Priest also criticized the response from the Nigerian Air Force's spokesperson in Bauchi who reportedly dismissed inquiries about the incident with the comment, "We're on holiday"—a response Sabka described as "callous and deeply insensitive."
"This dismissive attitude only worsens the pain of the bereaved family and taints the institution's moral standing. Wulumba did not fall in battle. He died behind bars, the victim of cruelty and neglect. His blood cries out for justice, and we will not back down until that justice is served," Sabka declared.
Calls for Accountability
The Chief Priest has called for the prosecution of all those found complicit in Wulumba's death and demanded a comprehensive reform of the military's internal disciplinary system. He urged the National Human Rights Commission, the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters, and the presidency to address the matter with appropriate seriousness.
"This is not just a Zaar issue—it's a Nigerian tragedy. Every citizen should be alarmed. We demand answers, accountability, and a system that values life over rank," he concluded.
BenriNews has reached out to the Nigerian Air Force for comment on these allegations.
Stay updated with the latest news by following us on social media:
