Nigerian Air Force officer reportedly dies in guardroom after detention for lateness

The Nigerian Air Force Command in Bauchi State is reportedly attempting to suppress details surrounding the death of an officer, Wulumba A.S., who allegedly passed away while confined in a guardroom following detention for arriving late to duty owing to health issues.

According to a report by SaharaReporters on Saturday, sources indicate that Wulumba, who joined the service as part of the 2003 regular intake and was assigned to the elite Special Operations Command (SOC) in Bauchi, died under detention allegedly directed by his commanding officer.

His service number was NAF 03/21103.

According to his grieving sister, Numdarai Joy Wulumba, her brother informed her on May 4, 2025, that he had been detained.

Wulumba had arrived late for duty due to health complications but claims his explanation was dismissed by his commander, who ordered his confinement.

“My late brother called me that day to say he was being sent to the guardroom. He said his offence was arriving late due to illness, but his commander wouldn’t listen. After that call, we never heard from him again — until we were told yesterday (Friday) that he was dead,” Numdarai recalled, visibly upset, in an interview with SaharaReporters.

She voiced shock and frustration over how the military managed the situation.

“I’ve lived near military formations all my life. I know the rules. Detention for minor offences like lateness is not supposed to exceed 24 hours. He should have been court-martialled if necessary — not locked up indefinitely. Now he’s gone. Let them enjoy the consequences.”

Wulumba A.S., a father of four, leaves behind his mother, wife, and sister who are mourning his loss.

His family is now demanding an urgent investigation from President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian military leadership into the circumstances surrounding his death.

“We want answers. He served this country for over 20 years. Is this how they treat their own?” she lamented.

When contacted, the Nigerian Air Force spokesperson in Bauchi, Flight Lieutenant Ogili Miracle, said, “I don’t have any information — we’re on holiday now,” he said.

The family insists Wulumba’s death could have been prevented and vows to seek justice until those responsible are held accountable.