Global human rights watchdog, Amnesty International, has demanded an immediate and impartial investigation into the brutal killing of a young footballer, Sani, by a drunken police officer in Niger State.
The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of Monday in Angwan-Kaje, Maitumbi, Minna, where Sani was shot dead while sleeping at his friend’s tea stall in the New Market area of Sabon Gari, Chanchaga Local Government Area.
Eyewitnesses described the attack as unprovoked and reckless, revealing that the officer, heavily intoxicated, went on a shooting spree, endangering multiple lives.
According to sources, Sani was unarmed and posed no threat when the officer opened fire without reason, killing him in cold blood. Another individual, a tea seller known as Mai Shayi, narrowly escaped death when the officer attempted to shoot him as well.
“The officer shot him unlawfully while he was sleeping. He then tried to shoot another person called Mai Shayi, but he managed to escape,” an eyewitness told SaharaReporters. Bullet casings were found littered at the crime scene.
Describing the slain footballer, a resident said, “Sani was a peaceful person. He was not arrogant, nor was he a member of any ‘Yan Daba’ group. He was well-known and loved in the community.”
Amnesty International condemned the unchecked brutality of the Nigerian police, calling for urgent accountability and justice.
“For decades, the Nigerian police have targeted the youth with utter disregard for the rule of law. Despite numerous pledges of reform, extrajudicial killings and other abuses remain rampant,” the organisation stated.
Nigeria’s security forces have long been accused of human rights violations, including unlawful executions, torture, harassment, and extortion during routine patrols. The killing of Sani has reignited public anger, with many decrying police impunity and lack of accountability.
Sani’s tragic death has left the community in grief, with family, friends, and residents demanding justice. His burial took place earlier today, as emotions ran high among those mourning his untimely and senseless killing.
With outrage growing, human rights advocates and the general public are pressuring authorities to act swiftly, ensuring that the rogue officer is brought to justice and that this gruesome cycle of police violence is finally broken.
PIONEER NEWS 