Outrage as Security Guards Kill Student in Kogi

By Joycelyn Ellakeche Adah

Outrage has gripped the Okpo community in Kogi State following the alleged killing of Andrew Amehson Aziko, a final-year student, by security guards at Nana College of Health, Ibana Okpo.

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, April 28, marks the second reported extrajudicial killing in the Olamaboro Local Government Area in just two months, sparking fears of a dangerous trend of impunity.

Speaking to Persecond News on the telephone, the former Secretary of Olamaboro LGA, Danjuma Onoja, raised the alarm and demanded a full-scale investigation. “I’m heartbroken,” Onoja stated.

 “This happened in the village where I grew up; the victim’s father is a dear friend.”

Disturbing video footage circulating online appears to show guards—who reportedly recognized Aziko—beating and then shooting him.

 Witnesses claim that Aziko, who was reportedly struggling with mental health challenges, was unarmed and had wandered onto the campus after escaping from a nearby rehabilitation centre.

Residents familiar with the victim described him as well-behaved and not associated with criminal activity.

The killing has triggered widespread condemnation among residents, many of whom questioned the use of lethal force. 

Community members also expressed frustration over what they describe as a pattern of unchecked violence by local security operatives.

“This is not the first time such an incident is happening here. If nothing is done, it could lead to a breakdown of law and order,” a resident said.

Family members and associates of the deceased have also demanded justice, describing the act as “barbaric” and avoidable. 

Observers warn that a failure to ensure accountability could escalate local tensions and trigger civil unrest.

This latest tragedy follows the death of another youth just weeks ago—reportedly after an assault by local vigilantes in the same council area—deepening fears of a pattern of extrajudicial violence.

Reacting, Olamaboro Local Government Chairman Williams Ameh stated that while he awaits an official briefing, measures are being taken to address the situation.

He appealed to residents, especially the youth, to avoid protests and trust the legal system.

“Let us not take the law into our hands,” Ameh urged. “Justice will prevail.”

Despite assurances from authorities, skepticism remains among residents, with some questioning the likelihood of accountability given past incidents.

Calls have also been made for a transparent investigation, including suggestions that the institution be temporarily shut down to preserve evidence and ensure an unbiased probe.

As of press time, the Kogi State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the incident.

The latest killing underscores growing concerns about the conduct of local security personnel and the urgent need for reforms to prevent further loss of life.