BORNO POLICE CLARIFY DEATH OF VGN MEMBER, ORDER FULL INVESTIGATION
The Borno State Police Command has clarified the circumstances surrounding the death of Abdul Hadi, a member of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), following reports circulating in the media. In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, the Command explained that the incident occurred on 4th February 2026 at about 4:00 p.m. when a joint patrol team of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and the Social Vices Unit intercepted a suspect, Abba Hussani, in Kaleri area of Maiduguri
By Abubakar Musa Haruna
The Borno State Police Command has clarified the circumstances surrounding the death of Abdul Hadi, a member of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), following reports circulating in the media.
In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, the Command explained that the incident occurred on 4th February 2026 at about 4:00 p.m. when a joint patrol team of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and the Social Vices Unit intercepted a suspect, Abba Hussani, in Kaleri area of Maiduguri.
The suspect was reportedly found in possession of a sharp knife and a locally made axe.
According to the statement, Abdul Hadi, a VGN member and resident of Kaleri, allegedly fired at the patrol vehicle in an attempt to obstruct the operation. The bullet was said to have pierced the bonnet of a white Hilux vehicle belonging to the Nigeria Immigration Service, a component of the joint task force, after which he fled the scene.
The Command said that after coordination with VGN leadership, Abdul Hadi reported to the RRS–Social Vices Unit on 6th February 2026, where he admitted firing at the patrol vehicle. He was subsequently remanded at the Tandari Custodial Centre for safekeeping.
ASP Daso further stated that on 9th February 2026, at about 5:00 p.m., Abdul Hadi developed sudden health complications while in custody and was immediately rushed to a medical facility, where he was confirmed dead.
The statement added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, has ordered a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident, including a review of the conduct of officers on duty at the detention facility.
The Command reaffirmed that the Nigeria Police Force operates a zero-tolerance policy on misconduct and assured that any officer found culpable would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
It also urged members of the public to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information, assuring residents of its commitment to accountability and the safety of all people in Borno State.
