By News24Hours | May 10, 2025 | Makurdi, Nigeria
A 23-year-old undergraduate of the Federal University Wukari, Miss Emmanuella Ahenjir, has reportedly been shot dead by police officers at a checkpoint in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, sparking outrage and growing calls for justice.
The tragic incident occurred on Friday morning at the Wurukum Roundabout, a bustling junction in the city. Emmanuella, a 200-level student of Business Management, was fatally struck by a bullet while commuting with a male companion.
🚨 What Happened?
Eyewitnesses recounted that the vehicle—a Toyota car—was driving from the Gyado Villa axis around 7:30 a.m. when police operatives on routine patrol flagged down the vehicle.
“The driver didn’t stop immediately, and in a matter of seconds, the officers opened fire on the car,” one witness told News24Hours.
Emmanuella was hit during the shooting and rushed to a nearby hospital, but succumbed to her injuries due to excessive blood loss.
⚖️ Public Outrage and Threats of Protest
The incident has sparked tension and outrage across Makurdi, with numerous civil society organizations (CSOs) and student groups condemning what they describe as reckless abuse of power by law enforcement.
Gender Rights Activist Ukan Kurugh expressed fury over the killing, warning that Makurdi could witness a total lockdown if justice is not served.
“If the police fail to act, the people will shut down the city come Tuesday,” he stated.
🤐 Silence from the Authorities
As of press time, efforts to reach the Benue State Police Command spokesperson, CSP Catherine Anene, have been unsuccessful. The silence from the police has only fueled public suspicion and anger.
🕊️ A Life Cut Short
Friends, fellow students, and human rights advocates have taken to social media, mourning Emmanuella and demanding accountability.
“She was just a young woman with dreams. Now she’s a victim of trigger-happy policing,” a classmate wrote.
📢 Demands for Justice
Advocacy groups are demanding:
- Immediate arrest and identification of the officers involved
- An independent investigation into the shooting
- Public apology and compensation to the victim’s family
- Comprehensive reform of police engagement rules
News24Hours will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more details emerge.
