UNIPORT demands justice over death of student killed by stray bullet

The University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has called for a thorough investigation into the death of Godwin Akpakpan, a 300-level Computer Science student, who was allegedly killed by a stray bullet fired by an unidentified military personnel.

Akpakpan’s family has accused the police of covering up the circumstances surrounding his death outside the university campus. His brother, Francis Akpakpan, said the family was yet to learn the identity of the soldier responsible, despite repeated inquiries.

According to Francis, Godwin went to watch a football match on April 16 and later returned home. The following day, a caller claiming to be a police officer informed the family that Godwin had been shot.

The Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed that a stray bullet from a military officer caused the student’s death. She explained that police officers had stopped a vehicle carrying the student during a stop-and-search operation and found illegal drugs in the vehicle. While escorting the occupants to the station, the police encountered a confrontation involving military personnel, during which the stray bullet was fired, hitting Akpakpan.

The police did not disclose the identity of the military personnel involved or the military formation.

UNIPORT, through its Head of Information, Dr. Sam Kpenu, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and vowed to work with security agencies to uncover the facts. The university urged calm within the student community and called for justice to be served.

“The university is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students and staff and expects that appropriate action will be taken in line with the rule of law,” the statement read.

The management also extended condolences to Akpakpan’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.