Final-Year IBBU Student Shot Dead by Soldier During Land Dispute Protest in Niger
A final-year student of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, Ismail Ishaq Magaji, has been shot dead during a protest over a land dispute in Wawa community, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
judithhh
Final-year IBBU student, Ismail Ishaq Magaji, has died after being shot during a protest over a land dispute in Wawa community, Niger State.
The incident occurred on Thursday during a confrontation between youths and security personnel deployed to the community after the land dispute escalated.
The dispute reportedly involved Magaji’s cousin, Hajia Zainab, popularly known as “Zee Baby,” a female politician from Borgu. Community sources alleged that Zainab invited soldiers to the area after youths began protesting.
One eyewitness said Magaji was chased by a soldier before he was shot.
“The soldier chased him before shooting him. It was not like an accidental discharge. He was running and the soldier went after him,” the source said.
Another source said the shooting happened amid confusion as security personnel tried to disperse the protesting youths.
“There was a confrontation between the youths and the soldiers. Ismail was there when the shooting happened. He was hit by the bullet and people immediately rushed him to the hospital,” the source said.
Magaji was taken to a hospital and received medical attention, but he later died.
His death reportedly angered youths in the community, who went to Zee Baby’s house and set it on fire. The disputed land was also reportedly damaged.
The incident has heightened tension in Wawa, with the Borgu LGA chairman, Muhammad Nasir Abdullahi, popularly known as Lambus, reportedly declaring an emergency in the town. Security personnel have also been deployed to prevent further violence and restore calm.
