A 14-year-old secondary school kid was murdered by a stray gunshot in Maiduguri, Borno State, in an incident that has raised outrage and renewed concerns about the misuse of firearms by security officials.
The terrible incident occurred on Saturday, April 4, when the woman was allegedly attacked inside her residence in the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) quarters. The gunshot was purportedly fired by military men participating in celebratory gunfire at a nearby wedding function.
A family acquaintance, speaking on the condition of anonymity, characterised the victim’s final moments as both ordinary and devastating.
“She lived in the UMTH quarters with her family and was at home when the catastrophe struck. She had just finished applying henna to her mother and herself, excitedly prepared for a family wedding on the same day,” the insider claimed.
The small girl was later declared dead, and she was buried on Sunday morning at Maiduguri Cemetery in accordance with Islamic customs.
Amnesty International condemned the tragedy and urged Nigerian authorities to conduct a full and independent investigation into the circumstances of the shooting.
In a statement, the organization emphasised the importance of responsibility and prevention efforts.
“There must be a transparent, impartial and effective investigation into this incident to safeguard lives and ensure justice,” Amnesty International said.
As at the time of reporting this article, military authorities had not issued an official statement regarding the incident.
Family members and residents have continued to demand answers, calling the killing unnecessary and urged the government to take urgent action to prevent a recurrence.