A violent clash between SS3 students and local youths in Suleja, Niger State, over a girl left two minors with bullet wounds. Police arrested 11 suspects, including an SS3 student, while investigations revealed a security officer fired the shots. Authorities are working to prevent future youth-related violence.
A violent altercation between secondary school students and local youths in Suleja, Niger State, has left two minors injured by gunfire. The clash, which occurred on Thursday night near Zuma Bread Bakery in the Chaichainiya area, reportedly stemmed from a dispute over a romantic relationship.
According to eyewitnesses, an SS3 student, identified as Umar Idris, led a group of classmates from Annur Islamic Model School to confront local youths after an argument over a girl escalated. The confrontation quickly turned violent, with both groups allegedly using weapons. In the chaos, 11-year-old Imaran Hassan and 10-year-old Nura Jibrin sustained gunshot wounds to their thighs from unknown sources.
Security forces, including the police and local vigilantes, were deployed to restore order. The injured minors were rushed to Suleja General Hospital for treatment. In the aftermath, authorities confirmed the arrest of 11 individuals, including Idris, while investigations are ongoing to identify others involved in the violence.
Niger State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, stated that preliminary findings indicate that a member of a security agency may have been responsible for the shooting. The police have assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway and that those found culpable will face legal action.
Local leaders and school authorities have since called for calm, urging students and community members to resolve disputes peacefully to prevent further violence.
