Slain final-year student, Emmanuella Ahenjir buried amid tears in Benue

Emmanuella Ahenjir, a 23-year-old final-year student of the Federal University Wukari, has been laid to rest in her hometown of Ushongo Local Government Area, Benue State, following her tragic death during a police stop-and-search operation in Makurdi.

The incident occurred on May 16, 2025, near the Wurukum roundabout, where police officers reportedly opened fire on a vehicle Emmanuella was traveling in. According to eyewitness accounts, the shooting happened after the driver allegedly failed to comply immediately with the officers’ signal to stop. Emmanuella was struck by a bullet and later died at a nearby hospital.

Her death has sparked widespread condemnation and protests across Benue State. In Makurdi, civil society organizations and concerned residents took to the streets in peaceful demonstrations, demanding justice for the slain student and calling for urgent reforms within the Nigeria Police Force.

Protesters held placards with inscriptions such as “Justice for Emmanuella” and “End Police Brutality Now,” urging authorities to bring the officers involved to book.

In response, the Benue State Police Command announced the commencement of a full investigation into the incident and assured the public that any officers found culpable would be held accountable.

Emmanuella’s death has once again brought the issue of police misconduct to the forefront, with many calling for swift justice and lasting reforms.