The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has strongly condemned the killing of a secondary school student in Oyo State, reportedly shot by a police officer, and has demanded immediate justice for the victim.
The tragic incident, which involved a WAEC candidate hit by a stray bullet in Ibadan, has sparked widespread outrage and protests from concerned citizens and civil society groups.
In a statement released in Abuja on Tuesday, the NANS Public Relations Officer, Comrade Samson Ajasa Adeyemi, described the student’s death as “senseless and reckless,” calling it a gross violation of human rights and a shameful misuse of power by security forces.
“This senseless and reckless act is a grave violation of the sanctity of human life and represents a blatant abuse of power by those entrusted with the duty to protect the citizens,” Adeyemi stated.
He expressed NANS’ condolences to the bereaved family, adding, “On behalf of Nigerian students, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the grieving family. We mourn with you and share in your pain during this period of immense sorrow. No family should have to endure the agony of losing a loved one under such harrowing circumstances.”
NANS is calling for an immediate and independent investigation into the killing, emphasizing that justice must be served without fear or favour.
“We demand a thorough and transparent investigation into this unfortunate incident. The officer responsible must be apprehended and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“Accountability is non-negotiable, and we will not accept anything less,” Adeyemi declared.
The student body also called for compensation for the deceased’s family. “While no amount of compensation can replace the life taken, it remains a crucial step toward acknowledging the family’s pain and holding the responsible parties accountable,” the spokesperson added.
Furthermore, NANS urged Oyo State Governor to take swift action. “We urge His Excellency, the Governor of Oyo State, to act swiftly to address this matter and ensure that justice is not only done but seen to be done,” Adeyemi said.
He warned that such incidents, if left unchecked, could lead to broader social unrest. “The state government must take proactive measures to prevent this tragic incident from escalating into broader unrest or tension within the community. The loss of innocent lives due to unchecked brutality by some law enforcement officers has become an alarming trend that must stop immediately.”
NANS reaffirmed its commitment to defending the rights and safety of students across Nigeria. “We remain committed to advocating for the safety, dignity, and well-being of Nigerian students and citizens at large.”
The association also called on students and the general public to remain peaceful. “We appeal to all students and members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding as we collectively pursue justice for the deceased and his family.”
“Together, we will ensure that this tragedy does not go unanswered, and we will work tirelessly to prevent future occurrences,” Adeyemi concluded.
