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What was meant to be a night of music and joy turned into a nightmare as Ahenjir Emmanuella, a student of Federal University Wukari, was shot and killed by officers of the Benue State Police Command in the early hours of Saturday.

Emmanuella, according to reports, had just attended a show in Makurdi hosted by rising Nigerian artist LLONA, who is currently on his #HomelessNationwideTour, promoting his message-driven music in cities like Ilorin, Ibadan, and Makurdi. The artist’s performance on Friday night, however, now shares headlines with tragedy.

Taking to social media, a visibly shaken LLONA wrote:
“Yesterday, Ahenjir Emmanuella…was shot and killed by officers of the Benue Police on her way home after my show. I can’t lie, this has deeply gotten to me… THIS IS THE FEAR WE STILL LIVE WITH IN 2025? The same people meant to protect us are the ones we keep avoiding???”

The musician joined growing calls for justice, urging the public to tag the appropriate authorities, and demanding accountability.
“Her family doesn’t deserve this pain. Emmanuella didn’t deserve this end.”

Police Respond with Conflicting Account

In a press statement released Friday, the Benue State Police Command confirmed an investigation has commenced into Emmanuella’s death. According to the police narrative, officers stationed at a checkpoint in Wurukum attempted to flag down a vehicle coming from the Benuelinks area. The vehicle allegedly turned into the opposite lane and, according to the police, began “shooting sporadically”, prompting a return of fire.

However, one of the vehicle’s occupants, Apase Keghter, tells a different story. He claims they were returning from Newcastle Event Centre when they bypassed the checkpoint on the opposite lane without stopping—but did not shoot. According to him, the police opened fire, and Emmanuella was hit. The group drove her to Benue State University Teaching Hospital, but it was too late.

Apase is currently assisting with the investigation. The police say the exhibit car, other occupants, and key evidence are yet to be located.

Benue State Commissioner of Police, CP Emenari Ifeanyi, has promised a “detailed investigation”, pledging transparency and justice.
“We are committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring that the rule of law prevails,” the police stated.

#JusticeForEmmanuella Trends Nationwide

The hashtag #JusticeForEmmanuella has surged across Nigerian social media, joining long-standing calls to #EndPoliceBrutality. Activists, students, and celebrities are demanding not just justice for Emmanuella, but systemic reform.

For many, the tragedy is a chilling reminder that despite past protests and reforms, police impunity remains a deadly threat—even for young Nigerians simply trying to enjoy a night out.

As LLONA put it: “Nobody deserves this.”

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