In a statement issued on Sunday by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Headquarters Guards Brigade, Lieutenant Olawuyi Odunola, the incident occurred during a routine night patrol by troops of the Guards Brigade Quick Response Group.

According to him, the soldiers had responded to a distress call over an armed robbery attack at Shagari Estate in the Dei Dei area of the Federal Capital Territory. On arrival, they reportedly came under fire from the fleeing suspects, leading to an exchange of gunshots.

During the confrontation, the corps member was caught in the crossfire and later died from injuries sustained.

Odunola said a full investigation has been launched to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident, assuring that the process would be transparent and its findings made public.

He also conveyed the condolences of the Brigade to the family of the deceased, the NYSC, and others affected by the loss, describing the incident as deeply painful.

The Army noted that the situation at the time was volatile, as troops worked to repel the attackers and safeguard residents in the area.

It added that the remains of the deceased have been handed over to the appropriate authorities and deposited at Kubwa General Hospital.

Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property within the Federal Capital Territory, the Army said it would continue to review its operational strategies to enhance civilian safety while tackling criminal activities.

Members of the public were also urged to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies in efforts to maintain peace and security.

In a statement issued on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the party described Makinde’s reference to “Operation Wetie” as both reckless and dangerous.

The APC said it was troubling that a sitting governor, who also serves as the chief security officer of his state, would allude to a violent chapter in Nigeria’s political history.

“The APC categorically condemns Governor Makinde’s incitement as reckless, and a clear and present threat to peace and national security,” the statement read.

The party called on security and intelligence agencies to take the matter seriously and act to safeguard lives and property.

It warned that the governor’s remarks could trigger unrest and lawlessness if not addressed.

“His statement risks fueling anarchy, violent reactions, and widespread disorder capable of undermining national stability,” the APC stated.

The party also noted that constitutional immunity does not shield public officials from being held accountable for actions that may threaten national security.

It stressed that no individual, regardless of position, should make statements capable of endangering lives or destabilising democratic governance.

The APC further dismissed claims by opposition parties that Nigeria is sliding toward a one-party state, describing such assertions as misleading.

It argued that opposition groups are dealing with internal crises stemming from poor leadership, factional disputes, and disregard for due process.

The party specifically mentioned the Peoples Democratic Party, Labour Party, and African Democratic Congress, accusing them of failing to present a credible alternative to the ruling government.

Reaffirming its stance, the APC said it remains focused on strengthening democratic institutions and delivering on its governance agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Our democracy thrives on competing ideas. The inability of opposition leaders to present viable alternatives is their responsibility, not ours,” the statement added.