💔 Justice Denied: Zaar Kingdom Mourns Officer Wulumba, Demands Accountability for Unlawful Detention and Death
By Staff Writer – June 9, 2025
The Zaar Kingdom and human rights community in Nigeria are in mourning and uproar following the tragic and avoidable death of Officer Wulumba A.S., a Nigerian Air Force personnel who died while unlawfully detained in Bauchi.
In a powerful press statement issued by Mbami Iliya Sabka, Human Rights Advocate and Chief Priest of the Zaar Kingdom, the community has condemned the detention and death of Wulumba as a “blatant violation of human dignity, justice, and the Zaar heritage.”
✍️ A Life of Service Cut Short
Officer Wulumba, with Service Number NAF 03/21103, was a dedicated member of the 2003 regular intake of the Nigerian Air Force. After more than 20 years of patriotic service, his life came to a tragic end—not on the battlefield, but in a detention cell at the Special Operations Command (SOC) in Bauchi.
According to reports published by Sahara Reporters, the officer arrived late to duty on May 4, 2025, due to illness. Instead of being given medical care, he was detained under orders from Group Captain Ofile, and tragically passed away in custody.
“He was a husband, father of four, a son of the Zaar soil, and a patriot. That he died behind bars, not in combat, is a national disgrace,” said Chief Priest Mbami.
⚖️ A Breach of Law and Conscience
The detention and neglect of an ailing officer for a minor disciplinary issue violates both human rights and Nigeria’s constitution. Section 34(1)(a) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) expressly prohibits inhuman and degrading treatment.
“This is not only a breach of military ethics, but also a breach of the law. There was no court-martial, no due process, and certainly no compassion,” the statement reads.
😡 Insensitive Responses and Institutional Rot
Adding salt to the wound, when media inquiries were made, an Air Force spokesperson in Bauchi reportedly dismissed the matter with a cold, “We’re on holiday.” This insensitive comment has sparked further outrage among civil society and the Zaar people.
“That response is appalling and shows the level of disregard for human life within some quarters of our security institutions,” Chief Priest Mbami noted.
📢 Demands for Justice
The Zaar Kingdom is calling for immediate and far-reaching action, including:
- An independent investigation into the circumstances of Officer Wulumba’s death.
- Prosecution of all individuals found responsible, including Group Captain Ofile.
- Military reforms to curb unlawful detentions and abuse of power.
- An official apology and adequate compensation for the Wulumba family.
🕊️ A Call for National Reflection
This tragedy is more than a personal or community loss—it is a national alarm. It calls into question the treatment of military personnel and the culture of impunity that festers in Nigeria’s security institutions.
“Wulumba died not in battle, but behind bars because of cruelty and neglect. His blood cries for justice. And we, the Zaar people, will not relent until it is served.”
About the Author:
Mbami Iliya Sabka is the Chief Priest of the Zaar Kingdom and a leading voice for civil and human rights in Northern Nigeria.