The Niger State Police Command has launched an investigation into the tragic killing of a young footballer, Sani Khalid, by a police officer allegedly intoxicated during a shooting spree in Maitumbi, Minna.
The incident, which occurred around 3 a.m. on Monday, March 10, 2025, in the Angwan-Kaje area of Chanchaga Local Government, has sparked outrage, with human rights groups and residents demanding justice.
According to eyewitnesses, “the officer, attached to the Maitumbi Police Station, consumed a large quantity of alcohol before picking up his rifle and firing indiscriminately”.
According to reports Khalid, was sleeping at his friend’s tea stall, and was hit by a bullet and died on the spot.
Also, the officer reportedly attempted to shoot a local tea vendor, known as Mai Shayi, who narrowly escaped.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, Wasiu Abiodun, stated that the Commissioner of Police, Shawulu Danmamman, had directed the Divisional Police Officer of Maitumbi to investigate and identify the officer responsible.
“The command received a report of the shooting, which occurred in the Angwan-Kaje area of Maitumbi, Minna. The Commissioner of Police has instructed the DPO to ensure a thorough investigation and take necessary disciplinary action. Further updates will be communicated to the public in due course,” Abiodun said.
In response to the killing, Amnesty International has condemned the attack, calling for an immediate and impartial investigation.
The global rights organization accused the Nigerian police of long-standing human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, harassment, and torture.
“It is unacceptable that, despite repeated pledges of reform, the Nigerian police continue to operate with impunity. The unchecked brutality of the force has led to a climate of fear and corruption, disproportionately targeting young people,” Amnesty International said in a statement.
