Final-Year Student killed by stray bullet in Benue, Police launch investigation

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the tragic death of Ahenjir Emmanuella, a final-year student at Kwararafa University, Wukari, Taraba State, who was fatally struck by a stray bullet allegedly fired by a police officer during a stop-and-search operation in Makurdi.

The incident occurred on Friday morning at approximately 11 am at the Wurukum roundabout. It was reported that police personnel opened fire on a commercial vehicle carrying passengers, including the victim, resulting in her death.

According to Emmanuella’s friend, Igbor Iorbo, the student was on her way back to university when the incident took place. Speaking to journalists in Makurdi, Iorbo called for a full investigation into what she termed an “unjust killing”.

“We are not asking for much — only justice,” Iorbo said. “The officers responsible must be identified and held accountable. Lives must not continue to be lost at the hands of those sworn to protect us.”

In response, the State Police Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, issued a statement on Friday evening confirming the incident. Anene explained that at around 4 am on the same day, the police received a distress call and subsequently dispatched a team to Duku Park, Wurukum.

According to the statement, a vehicle flagged down at a checkpoint failed to stop and fled, allegedly discharging gunfire at the police team. In response, the police fired a shot as the vehicle drove away.

The police later received information at approximately 10 am that a young woman had died at Benue State University Teaching Hospital from a gunshot wound. Detectives who arrived at the hospital identified the deceased as Emmanuella and arranged for her body to be deposited in the mortuary for a post-mortem examination.

An occupant of the vehicle, identified as Apase Keghter, was invited for questioning. Keghter reportedly told the police that he and others, including Emmanuella, had attended a party at Newcastle Event Centre Andrews were returning when they took the opposite lane to avoid a police checkpoint. However, he denied that any shots were fired from their vehicle.

The police command has assured the public of a comprehensive investigation. Commissioner of Police Emenari Ifeanyi pledged to ensure justice is served, reiterating his commitment to uphold the rule of law and uncover the full circumstances surrounding the incident.