Tragedy in Makurdi: 23-Year-Old FUW Student Fatally Shot by Police

A 23-year-old student of the Federal University Wukari (FUW), Taraba State, Miss Emmanuella Ahenjir, was reportedly shot dead by unidentified police personnel at the Wurukum roundabout in Makurdi, Benue State.

According to eyewitness accounts, the 200-level Business Management student was fatally wounded on Friday morning when police officers on patrol allegedly opened fire on a vehicle she was traveling in. The incident occurred around 7:30 a.m. as the car approached a police checkpoint near the popular Wurukum roundabout.

“The girl and a young male driver were coming from the Gyado Villa area,” a witness recounted. “When they got to the checkpoint, the police flagged them down. But when the driver failed to stop immediately, the officers opened fire on the car. Sadly, the girl was hit by a bullet.”

She was rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed to her injuries due to excessive blood loss.

The incident has sparked outrage and growing tension across Makurdi, with several civil society organizations (CSOs) and advocacy groups threatening mass protests if justice is not served.

Gender rights activist Ukan Kurugh condemned the killing and issued a stern warning to the authorities.

“If the Benue State Police Command fails to take swift and transparent action, Makurdi could face a total lockdown starting Tuesday,” Kurugh said.

As of the time of filing this report, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the Benue State Command, CSP Catherine Anene, could not be reached for comment.

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