A protest in Delta State turned violent when a policeman allegedly shot a protester during a confrontation at the Otovwodo junction.
The incident occurred as protesters, carrying placards, marched towards the junction and were met with police resistance.
Eyewitnesses reported that the police began dispersing the crowd by firing tear gas, which caused chaos among the protesters. In response, the protesters started pelting the officers with sachet water. According to a protester who spoke to the publication, “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 shooting tear gas, the police were being pelted with sachet water by the protesters, and as they were driving away, they opened fire on the protesters, and one person was hit on his chest.”
Human Rights Activist, Comrade Silver, who was present at the scene, provided additional 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 shooting 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 protester was reportedly taken to a hospital by security agents, though details about his condition remain unclear. The incident has further fueled tensions in Ughelli North, with calls for justice and accountability growing louder.
Authorities have yet to comment on the incident, but the community is demanding a thorough investigation into the police actions and the circumstances surrounding the shooting. As the situation develops, the residents of Ughelli North continue to rally for peace and justice.
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