A civil society organisation, Speak Out for Justice Advocacy Ltd/Gte, has condemned the death of a student, Fatima Jibril Khali, allegedly caused by a stray bullet during a wedding celebration in Maiduguri, Borno State.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the organisation expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a preventable tragedy and a stark reminder of the dangers associated with the reckless use of firearms in civilian settings.
According to the group, the deceased, a student of Zenith International Academy, was struck by a bullet reportedly discharged during a wedding in the Ngomari area of the city while she was inside her residence at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital quarters.
SOJA extended its condolences to the bereaved family, stressing that no family should endure such a loss under avoidable circumstances.
The organisation noted that the incident raises significant legal and human rights concerns, particularly regarding the right to life as enshrined in Section 33(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), as well as international frameworks such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
It further emphasised the responsibility of the state to protect citizens from preventable harm through effective regulation of firearms and enforcement of public safety laws.
The group called on the Borno State Government, the Nigeria Police Force, and other relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident.
It also urged security agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible, enforce stricter controls on firearm use, and strengthen safety protocols at public and social gatherings.
Additionally, SOJA recommended intensified public sensitisation on the dangers and legal consequences of reckless firearm use, as well as the provision of support for the victim’s family.
“The death of Fatima Jibril Khali must not be treated as a mere accident. It is a serious public safety failure that demands urgent action,” the statement said.
The organisation reiterated that the protection of human life remains the foremost responsibility of government and called for immediate reforms to prevent similar occurrences.
