The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has begun investigations into the circumstances behind the death of one of its personnel attached to its Bauchi Command, Corporal A. S. Wulumba.
The officer allegedly died while being confined to a guardroom after being detained for arriving late to his duty station.
According to sources, Numdarai Wulumba, his sister, was notified by her brother on May 4, 2025, that he had been jailed.
She said that he arrived late for duty owing to health issues, but that his explanation was rejected by his commander, who therefore ordered his incarceration.
“Detention for minor offences like lateness is not supposed to exceed 24 hours, according to military rules. He should have been court-martialled if necessary, not locked up indefinitely. “Now he’s gone,” she said.
When contacted on Tuesday, NAF spokesman Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame expressed apologies for the situation.
He mentioned that a board of inquiry had been formed to investigate the circumstances of the death.
Ejodame said, “The NAF deeply regrets to confirm the unfortunate passing of Corporal A. S. Wulumba. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
“The loss of any of our personnel is profoundly felt across the Service. In line with standard procedure, a board of inquiry has been convened to ascertain the circumstances surrounding his death.
“Further information will be provided as the investigation progresses. The NAF remains committed to the welfare of its personnel and to upholding the highest standards of accountability and transparency.”
