Tension has gripped parts of the Federal Capital Territory after an operative of the Department of State Services (DSS) allegedly “accidentally” opened fire on three civilians in Karmajiji (Karon Majigi) village, leaving two men dead and one critically injured.
Karen Majigi is a community directly behind the National Military Cemetery, on the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Way that leads to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. The Way houses are wide range of estates and the popular , but now closed Shoprite Supermarket. One of the estates where operatives of the security agency are believed to reside.
The incident occurred on January 19, 2026, when the DSS operative, identified as Ajayi Abayomi, allegedly discharged his service pistol at a group of villagers who were “going about their lawful business,” according to a police source.
Musa Adamu was the first victim, struck by a bullet that later proved fatal; he died a few hours after the shooting.
The bullet then reportedly passed through the abdomen of Mallam Suleiman Salisu, before lodging in the left hand of Abdullahi Ahmed.
Salisu succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday, January 28, at the Federal Medical Centre, Abuja, while Ahmed remains in critical condition at the same facility.
The DSS operative has reportedly gone into hiding following the shooting and has refused to honour a police invitation to assist investigators.
According to security sources, Abayomi has attempted to justify the incident as an accidental discharge, claiming he unintentionally pulled the trigger of his pistol.
Police and local residents have expressed deep concern over the lack of accountability so far. A relative of one of the deceased lamented the loss, calling for justice and compensation for the family of Salisu.
While the DSS has not issued an official statement on the shooting, the incident adds to ongoing public scrutiny of security agencies’ conduct in civilian communities. Recent actions involving the DSS — including arrests of personnel over alleged misconduct — have drawn attention to challenges in professional oversight and civilian safety.
