The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) Chairman, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has expressed deep sorrow over the untimely demise of 19-year-old Nigerian student Afolabi Stephen.
The tragic incident reportedly occurred in Manitoba, Canada, where Stephen fell victim to what is alleged to be police gunfire on December 31, 2023.
While the circumstances surrounding the young student’s death remain shrouded in mystery, the Winnipeg, Manitoba Police Department shed light on the incident through a statement posted on its website.
According to the police, officers responded to a distress call concerning a young male exhibiting erratic behavior.
Upon arrival, attempts to pacify the distressed him proved futile, culminating in the use of lethal force by the police, resulting in his untimely demise.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, conveying her condolences through the Director of Media and Public Relations and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, assured that justice would be diligently pursued.
She stated, “We are in touch with the Nigerian mission in Ottawa, who have received assurances from the Canadian authorities that investigations into the unfortunate incident have commenced and will be conducted thoroughly.”
The chairman further extended heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family and friends of Afolabi, offering prayers for his innocent soul to rest in perfect peace.
