A wave of protests has swept through Makurdi, the capital city of Benue State, following the tragic death of 23-year-old Emmanuella Ahenjir, a final-year student at the Federal University, Wukari. The young woman’s life was allegedly cut short by police personnel, sparking widespread outrage and demands for justice. According to reports, Emmanuella was shot dead last Friday morning at the Wurukum roundabout, while riding in a vehicle that was traveling from the Gyado Villa area of the town. The circumstances surrounding her death are still unclear, but one thing is certain – the people of Makurdi will not let her memory fade without a fight.
Led by prominent gender rights activist, Ukan Kurugh, a sea of protesters, mostly young people, has taken to the streets to demand justice for Emmanuella. The demonstrators converged at the Wurukum roundabout, where Emmanuella’s life was lost, wielding placards with powerful messages such as “End Police Brutality” and “Justice for Emmanuella.” The protesters are calling for a thorough investigation into the incident and immediate action from the authorities to bring those responsible to book. The atmosphere is tense, with a sense of frustration and anger hanging in the air. The people of Makurdi are fed up with the lack of accountability and the culture of impunity that seems to pervade the police force.
As the protests continue to gain momentum, the international community is watching with keen interest. The incident has sparked a global outcry, with many calling for an end to police brutality and a thorough investigation into Emmanuella’s death. The Nigerian government has a responsibility to ensure that its citizens are protected and that those who are tasked with upholding the law are held accountable for their actions. The people of Makurdi will not rest until justice is served, and Emmanuella’s memory is honored. The world is waiting with bated breath to see how the authorities will respond to the protests and the demands for justice. One thing is certain – the death of Emmanuella Ahenjir will not be in vain, and her legacy will live on as a catalyst for change.
