The Nigerian Air Force is under scrutiny following the death of Officer Wulumba A.S. (NAF 03/21103), a member of the 2003 regular intake attached to the elite Special Operations Command (SOC) in Bauchi. According to his devastated sister, Numdarai Joy Wulumba, Officer Wulumba died in a guardroom after being detained for reporting late to duty due to illness.
On May 4, 2025, Officer Wulumba reached out to his sister, informing her of his detention. He explained that he had reported late due to health complications, but his commanding officer, Group Captain Ofile, allegedly ignored his plea and ordered his detention. Numdarai tearfully recounted that this was the last she heard from her brother until the family was informed of his death on Friday.
Expressing disbelief and outrage, Numdarai highlighted that detention for minor offenses like lateness should not exceed 24 hours, and that court-martial proceedings should have been initiated if necessary, not indefinite incarceration. Officer Wulumba, a father of four, leaves behind a grieving mother, wife, and only sister.
His family is now demanding justice, urging President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian military high command to immediately investigate the cause and circumstances of his death. Numdarai emphasized her brother's over two decades of service to the country, questioning the treatment of military personnel.
Attempts to get information from the Air Force spokesperson in Bauchi, Flight Lieutenant Ogili Friday Miracle, were met with dismissive responses, further raising concerns about transparency. The family alleges that Officer Wulumba's death was avoidable and has vowed to pursue justice until those responsible are held accountable, adding to ongoing concerns about the welfare and human rights of personnel within Nigeria’s security forces.
