IBBU student killed by stray bullet during military action in Niger

A 400-level student of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, Niger State, Ismail Magaji, has been reported dead after being hit by a stray bullet during a military operation in New Bussa, Borgu Local Government Area of the state.

Mr Magaji, who studied Public Administration, was caught in the gunfire due to a community dispute in Wawa under the Borgu Kingdom on Thursday.

Reports say military personnel were in the area because of a land dispute that led to random gunfire.

We could not verify the details surrounding the student’s death at the time of this report.

Mr Magaji was preparing for his final exams before the university's chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) went on indefinite strike.

Reports also state that he had stayed at home for about two weeks, hoping the strike would end before finally heading home.

He was set to start his final exams around 5 September.

A classmate, Yahaya Lawal, spoke highly of the deceased, saying he was a promising student whose life ended just as he was about to finish university.

“Ismail Ishaq Magaji, a promising 400-level student of Public Administration at IBBU, should have been in the classroom preparing for his exams and future to help develop society,” Mr Lawal said.

He described Mr Magaji as gentle, calm, accommodating, and friendly.

“We will certainly miss his kindness, calmness, and simplicity. He was a very friendly person. It is very unfortunate and troubling that he was killed by those meant to protect us,” he said.

Mr Lawal prayed for the peace of his soul and strength for his family.

“May Allah forgive Ismail Ishaq Magaji all his shortcomings, grant him Aljannatul Firdaus, and give his family the strength to handle this great loss,” he said.

As of now, there has been no official word from the Niger State Government, the Nigerian Army, or any relevant security agencies regarding the reported death.

The details of the shooting, including who was involved and if an investigation has started, are still unclear.

This incident has raised concerns among students and residents about the safety of civilians during security operations and community conflicts.