We did not deploy security men, says Kaduna govt, following fatal shooting of student

After reports that a student of the Kaduna State College of Education, Gidan Waya, Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State, was shot dead on Monday, the Kaduna State says it did not deploy security operatives to stop the demonstrations.

Mr. Samuel Aruwan, the Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, in a security update says it is awaiting full reports on the Gidan Waya protest

According to Aruwan, the preliminary report received confirmed one student lost his life and some others were wounded, while three security personnel also sustained injuries.

He adds, “The Governor of Kaduna state, Malam Nasir El-Rufai condoled the family of the student that lost his life, and wished the students and operatives who sustained injuries speedy recovery.

“The government of Kaduna State also wishes to debunk reports that it deployed security operatives to suppress protesting students. KDSG is awaiting briefings to enable it understand the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate violent incidence in Gidan Waya.

“At the time of this update, the Governor is awaiting reports from the military, police, DSS, the management of the institution, the student union as well as the traditional institution in the area.

“The government will publicise its findings after receipt of the expected reports.”

The deceased, according to the Daily Trust newspaper, had joined his colleagues, who were protesting over hike in school fees, when security operatives made attempt to disperse them forcefully.

Speaking with Daily Trust, one of the protesters, who preferred anonymity,  said they came out to protest over the increase of school fees in the state-owned institution but met security operatives outside the college.

Our correspondent also gathered that one student identified as Emmanuel Nata was also shot but he is currently receiving treatment.

Confirming the incident to our correspondent during a press conference, National President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Sunday Asefon, said he gathered that two students were killed during the protest while another was shot.

He lamented that the state government did not take into consideration prevailing economic realities in the country before taking increasing tuition.

The student said they found it extremely hard to cope with the previous school fees that ranged between N25,000 to N33,000 and wonder what will happen with the present increment to N75,000.

When contacted, the Provost of the College, Professor Alexander Kure who confirmed the protest, said he was yet to establish reasons for the development.

▪︎ Additional reports by Daily Trust