IBBU student killed by stray bullet during Niger military operation

A final-year student of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, has reportedly been killed by a stray bullet during a military operation in Niger State.

The student was identified as Ismail Ishaq Magaji, a 400-level Public Administration student. Daily Post and Premium Times reported that the shooting followed a communal land dispute around Wawa community in Borgu Kingdom on Thursday, September 17.

The reports said military personnel were operating around New Bussa and nearby communities after the dispute triggered sporadic gunfire. One of the bullets allegedly hit Magaji.

Premium Times reported that the circumstances of the death had not been independently verified at the time of publication. Daily Post also reported that there was no official statement yet from the Nigerian Army, Niger State Government, IBBU management or the police.

Magaji had reportedly returned home after the university branch of the Academic Staff Union of Universities began an indefinite strike. A coursemate, Yahaya Lawal, described him as a promising student preparing to complete his studies.

Sources: Daily Post, Premium Times