KEY POINTS

• A female civil defence officer died after being hit by a patrol vehicle during a simulation exercise in abuja

• the civil defence corps confirmed the incident and has begun internal investigations

• officials say a full statement explaining the circumstances will be released soon

A female officer serving with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, has died after she was accidentally run over by one of the agency’s operational vehicles during a simulation exercise in Abuja.

The incident happened during what witnesses described as a coordinated show-of-force drill involving multiple personnel in the NSCDC and patrol vehicles. According to a video circulating online, the officer was struck as a patrol vehicle turned during the exercise. The NSCDC vehicle rolled over her before coming to a stop, prompting an immediate emergency response from colleagues and bystanders at the scene.

NSCDC Officials nearby rushed toward the fallen officer, lifting the vehicle in an attempt to free her. Emergency responders arrived shortly afterward and evacuated her for medical attention, but she was later confirmed dead.

The tragedy was verified by Afolabi Babawale, spokesperson of the NSCDC, who said the agency had begun internal procedures following the incident. He explained that senior officers were already on their way to visit the deceased officer’s family to offer condolences and support.

How the accident happened

He also noted that the NSCDC would release a detailed statement clarifying how the accident occurred and outlining any safety or administrative steps to be taken after preliminary findings.

The officer’s identity had not yet been officially disclosed at the time of reporting.

The incident has sparked conversations about operational safety during live drills and training simulations, especially those involving moving vehicles. Security experts often stress that simulation exercises, though essential for preparedness, must be conducted under strictly controlled conditions to prevent avoidable tragedies.