Policeman Allegedly Shot Protester In Delta State

Tension increased onthe second day of peaceful protests against substandard governance in Delta State’s Ughelli North Local Government Area.

According to Vanguard, the situation changed dramatically when police stationed at the Otovwodo axis of the East-West motorway allegedly shot and injured an unidentified protester.

Protesters carrying placards and moving towards the Otovwodo crossroads were confronted with police resistance. According to eyewitnesses, the police began firing tear gas to disperse the gathering, confusing as demonstrators pelted them with sachet water.

A protester, speaking to the publication, recounted the events, “We were not carrying anything dangerous except for the placards in our hands when the police double-crossed us and started shooting tear gas. While sh00ting tear gas, the police were being pelted with sachet water by the protesters, and as they were driving away, they opened f!re on the protesters, and one person was hit on his chest.”

Human Rights Activist, Comrade Silver, who was present at the scene, provided further details, “This morning, we were here, and it was very peaceful. We were pleading with the protesters to calm down and avoid giving hoodlums an opportunity to loot market items. I saw a police van chasing a Mercedes 4matic car; they blocked the car and threw tear gas inside. As they were about to take the boy away, I pleaded with the police, and the boy was released to me.”

Silver continued, “As the boys were leaving, another police vehicle came and insisted that the boy must be arrested. The market women began to pelt them with water and stones, leading the police to start sh00ting tear gas and live bullets. I learned they shot a person, and the Army rushed him to the hospital. I do not know the name of the hospital they took him to, but all I know is that there were gunshots.”

The injured demonstrator was reportedly transported to a hospital by security personnel, however his condition is unknown. The incident has exacerbated tensions in Ughelli North, with calls for justice and accountability getting stronger.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli