Tension in Benue as Youths Protest Killing of Final-Year Student by Police

Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, witnessed a wave of protests after the tragic death of Emmanuella Ahenjir, a 23-year-old student in her final year at the Federal University, Wukari. The young woman was reportedly gunned down by unknown police officers last Friday morning.

The shooting occurred near the Wurukum roundabout as Emmanuella was traveling in a vehicle coming from the Gyado Villa area. The identity of the officers involved remains unknown, and the incident has generated widespread public anger and condemnation.

In reaction, large crowds, predominantly composed of young people, took to the streets in protest. Gender rights advocate Ukan Kurugh led the demonstration, drawing significant attention to the incident.

Protesters assembled in huge numbers at the Wurukum roundabout, holding placards with messages like “Justice for Emmanuella” and “End Police Brutality.” Their central demands include a transparent investigation and swift action from the appropriate authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice.