A final-year student of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, Niger State, Ismail Ishaq Magaji, has reportedly been shot dead during a protest over a land dispute in Wawa community, Borgu Local Government Area.
Community sources said the incident occurred on Thursday when tensions reportedly escalated between protesting youths and security personnel deployed to the community.
According to eyewitnesses, Magaji was caught in a confrontation between youths and soldiers. One source alleged that a soldier chased the student before shooting him.
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Magaji was reportedly rushed to a hospital after sustaining the gunshot injury, but he later died despite efforts to save his life.
The dispute reportedly involved the victim’s cousin, Hajia Zainab, popularly known as “Zee Baby,” a female politician from Borgu. Sources alleged that soldiers were invited to the community after the land dispute escalated and youths began protesting.
Following the student’s death, angry youths reportedly attacked and set fire to Zainab’s residence. Property at the disputed land was also said to have been destroyed.
The incident has heightened tension in Wawa, with residents reportedly concerned about possible further violence.
The Chairman of Borgu Local Government Area, Muhammad Nasir Abdullahi, popularly known as Lambus, was reportedly said to have declared an emergency in the town.
Security personnel have also reportedly been deployed to the area to restore calm and prevent further escalation.
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