The National Association of Nigerian Students has condemned Tuesday’s killing of a student in Ibadan by a stray police bullet, issuing authorities a 24-hour ultimatum to ensure justice.
The association’s stance was declared in a statement signed by its Coordinator, Taiwo Owolewa; General Secretary, Olutunde Oluwole, and the Public Relations Officer, Eromidayo Kuku, all of its South-West Zone D.
The statement described the incident as “senseless and inexcusable”, declaring it an attack on Nigerian students and the education sector.
“This is not just an accident; it is a national disgrace and a direct attack on the Nigerian student body,” it read.
It stressed that students were tired of mourning their peers killed by security agents, lamenting that brutality and extrajudicial killings had become a recurring experience for young Nigerians.
“The student body is demanding the immediate arrest and prosecution of the officer responsible, suspension and investigation of the entire police unit involved, a public apology, and compensation to the victim’s family.
“There must be a thorough overhaul of rogue elements in the police force operating in Oyo State,” it read.
NANS further alleged that the officers responsible were linked to the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad, which had continued to operate with impunity in defiance of previous reforms.
It, therefore, issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the relevant authorities, including Gov. Seyi Makinde, the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, and the Inspector-General of Police, to take swift action.
“Nigerian students are not criminals. We will not fold our arms while our colleagues are being killed.
“If justice is not served within 24 hours, we will embark on peaceful protests, mass mobilisation, and take legal steps,” the statement read.
The association also emphasised its commitment to protecting the lives and dignity of Nigerian students, reiterating that it would not tolerate further acts of police brutality.
“We say NO to police brutality! We say NO to extrajudicial killings! We say NO to the silence that fuels oppression!
“This young comrade’s life must not be lost in vain. Justice must be done and must be seen to be done,” the statement read.
The student was shot while on his way to write his West African Examination Council examination around the Alakia area of Ibadan.
According to reports, the deceased was hit by a stray bullet allegedly fired by one of the police officers in pursuit of a vehicle.
