Death Of NAF Officer Wulumba In Cell: Zaar Kingdom Demands Probe

BY ADEYEMI AKANJI, BAUCHI – The Chief Priest of Zaar Kingdom, Mbami Iliya Sabka has condemned in strong terms, the alleged detention and subsequent death of an officer with the Nigerian Air Force, late Wulumba A.S.

He described Wulumba’s death as a national disgrace and a direct assault on the values of justice, duty, and humanity, adding that the Zaar Kingdom stands in full solidarity with the Wulumba family and all Nigerians demanding justice.

Sabka, who is also an activist therefore called for an immediate, transparent, and independent investigation into the incident leading to the unlawful detention and death of the Officer.

A statement in Bauchi on Sunday, titled: ‘Unlawful Detention and Death of Officer Wulumba A.S: A Blatant Violation of Human Dignity and Zaar Heritage’, Sabka called on the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters, and the presidency to as a matter of national importance, investigate the circumstances surrounding the allegations.

He also called for accountability and prosecution of all individuals found complicit in the unlawful detention and death of Wulumba as well as a comprehensive military reforms to address impunity and systemic abuse within the ranks of Nigerian Armed Forces.

Sabka said; “We condemn in the strongest terms, the unlawful detention and tragic death of Officer Wulumba A.S., a loyal son of the Zaar people and a dedicated member of the Nigerian Air Force.

“According to credible reports, Officer Wulumba was detained on May 4, 2025, after arriving late to duty due to illness. He informed his Commanding Officer of his condition, but was instead, ordered into the guardroom by Group Captain Ofile—a decision that proved fatal.

“Wulumba died in detention under avoidable and inhumane circumstances, at the Special Operations Command (SOC) in Bauchi where he was posted and serving.

Wulumba identified by Service No. NAF 03/21103, was a member of the 2003 regular intake and served this country with honour for over 20 years. He was a husband, father of four, sons and brother.

“That his life was snuffed out not in combat, but in a detention cell due to the cruel decision of a superior Officer, is a gross violation of his rights and dignity.

“Let it be stated clearly: detaining an Officer—particularly one who is ill—for a minor disciplinary issue such as lateness, without immediate medical care or due process such as a court-martial, is a clear breach of Section 34(1)(a) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which protects every citizen from torture, inhuman, and degrading treatment.

“As a custodian of Zaar heritage and a defender of civil liberties, I state categorically that, “The dismissive attitude shown by the Air Force Spokesperson in Bauchi, who said, “we’re on holiday,” when asked about the death of a Nigerian serviceman, is appalling and adds insult to grievous injury.

“Such lack of empathy and responsibility only deepens the family’s pain and casts a dark shadow over the institution’s integrity.

“This must not be swept under the rug. Wulumba A.S. did not die in battle. He died behind bars—because of cruelty, negligence, and failure of leadership. His blood cries out for justice. We will not relent until that justice is served,” Sabka said.