Police in Cross River State reportedly fired shots during a student protest against poor healthcare conditions, reigniting concerns about police brutality in Nigeria. The incident occurred as students demonstrated over deteriorating medical services at their institution.
Protest Turns Violent
Viral videos showed panicked students running for safety as gunshots rang out. In one clip, a voice shouted, 'Look at them, they are shooting at us,' as protesters scattered. The students were demanding improved healthcare facilities when the situation escalated.
The protest has triggered outrage online, with many Nigerians condemning the use of force against unarmed students and accusing security agencies of responding violently to peaceful demonstrations.
Renewed Concerns Over Police Brutality
The incident comes amid ongoing national conversations about police misconduct, despite reform promises following the 2020 #EndSARS protests. Recent weeks have seen multiple controversial shootings, including a police officer killing a man in Oyo State and another executing a restrained suspect in Delta State.
Following the Delta incident, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun ordered an investigation and promised disciplinary action. The Nigeria Police Force has also announced measures addressing misconduct, with 167 senior officers facing a disciplinary committee over allegations of professional misconduct.
Police authorities insist on reform efforts through training and accountability, but critics argue that excessive force and abuse continue to erode public trust.
Calls for Justice
The Cross River protest has renewed demands from civil society groups for improved policing standards and respect for human rights. As of this report, the Cross River State Police Command had not released an official statement on the shooting allegations.
