Tragedy Strikes: Police Stray Bullet Kills WAEC Candidate in Disturbing Incident

A tragic incident has shaken the city of Asaba, Delta State, as a young secondary school student lost his life to a stray bullet allegedly fired by police officers in pursuit of a suspected internet fraudster (commonly referred to as a “Yahoo boy”). The heartbreaking event occurred just as the student was on his way to sit for his West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC), a key academic milestone for many Nigerian youths.

A Life Cut Short Too Soon

The young boy, whose identity is yet to be officially confirmed, was simply walking to school on what should have been an ordinary morning. Instead, his journey ended in tragedy. According to eyewitness reports and a viral video circulating on social media, police officers engaged in a high-speed chase reportedly opened fire in a public area, and one of the bullets hit the innocent student.

He died on the spot, shocking bystanders and throwing the community into mourning. He was said to have been excited about completing his WAEC exams, which would have paved the way for his tertiary education.

Eyewitness Accounts Spark Outrage

Those who witnessed the incident were horrified, not only by the sudden loss of life but also by the recklessness of the officers involved. Many questioned why live bullets were used in such a densely populated area, especially around schools.

In the emotional video circulating online, people can be heard crying out in disbelief as they surround the boy’s lifeless body. His school uniform, exam pass, and personal belongings were seen scattered beside him, a chilling reminder of what he had hoped to achieve that day.

Police Chase Gone Wrong

The police officers were reportedly chasing a suspect accused of cyber fraud, a crime that has seen increased crackdowns in Nigeria in recent years. However, the method of pursuit in this case has raised serious concerns. Instead of safely apprehending the suspect, their actions resulted in the death of an innocent child, further fueling public anger and calls for reform in police practices.

Community and Nationwide Reactions

Social media platforms have been flooded with reactions, with many Nigerians demanding justice for the slain student. Hashtags like #JusticeForWAECBoy and #EndPoliceBrutality are trending once again, reminding citizens of past cases of police misconduct that led to mass protests, including the #EndSARS movement.

Prominent figures, civil society organizations, and human rights advocates have also spoken out, condemning the incident and demanding accountability from the Nigeria Police Force.

WAEC Board Reacts

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating that no student should ever lose their life while trying to pursue education. The board also called on authorities to ensure safety measures are put in place around exam centers, especially during sensitive periods.

Demands for Accountability

Citizens are now calling on the Delta State Police Command to carry out a full investigation and bring the officers responsible to justice. This is not the first time innocent lives have been lost due to police carelessness, and many believe it’s time for serious reforms, not just promises.

A Wake-Up Call

This devastating incident serves as yet another wake-up call for both the government and the police authorities to review the rules of engagement, especially in public spaces. While fighting crime is important, protecting innocent lives should always come first.

Final Words

A promising future was destroyed in seconds, leaving a family shattered and a nation questioning the value of young lives in the face of reckless law enforcement. Until justice is served, and meaningful reforms are made, stories like this will continue to haunt the conscience of a country trying to heal.

Written By Fortune Davidson