A tragic incident in Kogi State has sparked widespread outrage after a vigilante group allegedly beat and killed a university student said to be mentally challenged.
The victim, identified as Andrew Amehson Aziko, was a 400-level student of Prince Abubakar Audu University. He was reportedly killed after straying into the premises of Nana College of Health in Okpo, Olamaboro Local Government Area.
According to eyewitness accounts, the incident occurred in the early hours of April 28, 2026, when the student, who was said to be undergoing mental health treatment, allegedly wandered into the school environment after escaping from a rehabilitation facility.
Sources claimed that members of a local vigilante group attached to the institution intercepted him and subjected him to severe assault.
A video circulating online reportedly shows the victim being beaten while pleading with the operatives, some of whom were said to recognise him.
Community members described the deceased as a quiet and well-known individual in the area, adding that he had no criminal history and was previously regarded as well-behaved despite his health condition.
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The incident was first publicly raised by a former local government official, Danjuma Onoja, who called for an immediate investigation and accountability for those involved.
He also noted concerns that it was the second reported case of alleged extrajudicial killing in the area within a short period.
A relative of the deceased, Monday Ujah, condemned the act, describing it as brutal and unacceptable.
He also criticised the school authorities for not promptly reaching out to the bereaved family.
The Kogi State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that the student was initially intercepted while allegedly attempting to gain access to the school premises.
According to the police, he was later found unconscious and taken to a medical facility, where he was confirmed dead due to injuries sustained during the assault.
The Commissioner of Police condemned the use of excessive force, stressing that vigilante groups and private security operatives do not have the legal authority to mete out punishment under any circumstance.
He further disclosed that detectives had commenced investigation into the matter, adding that the identities of the individuals involved had been established, though they were currently at large.
Authorities have assured the public that efforts are ongoing to arrest the suspects and ensure justice is served.
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