A teenage girl, identified as Miss Isioma Nwayalani, has tragically lost her life after being struck by a stray bullet allegedly fired by a jubilant member of an anti-cult squad in Delta State.
The incident occurred in front of a chemist shop near the palace of the Ugoani of Okpanam, located at Obodogba quarters, Okpanam, Asaba, in Oshimili North Local Government Area of the state.
Sources revealed that the tragedy happened on Saturday evening when operatives of the anti-cult squad returned from a burial ceremony in Agbor, firing shots into the air in celebration.
“They (Anti-Cult) were in a jubilant mood upon their return and were shooting into the air sporadically but unfortunately, a stray bullet from one of them hit the girl who was immediately rushed to Asaba Specialist Hospital where she reportedly gave up the ghost at about 7.30p.m,” a source narrated.
The trigger-happy member of the anti-cult squad whose pellet reportedly, hit the belly of the lady, is said to have been arrested.
Miffed by the tragic killing and to avert a possible reprisal, the President-General of the Okpanam Youth Organisation in a statement has called for calm.
Secretary-General of Okpanam Youth Organisation, Comrade Fidelis Ogochukwu Okonma, in the statement, bemoaned the avoidable tragedy, but promised justice would be served.
“On behalf of Hon. Lucky Okolo, the President-General of the Okpanam Youth Organisation, I write to address the tragic incident that recently occurred in Okpanam, resulting in the untimely death of Miss Isioma Nwayalani due to an accidental discharge from a rifle belonging to an anti-cult member.
“This heartbreaking event has understandably stirred a wave of emotions within our community, and the organisation feels it is crucial to urge calm and unity during this difficult time.
“The loss of Miss Nwayalani is a profound tragedy that has impacted not only her family and friends but also the entire community. In moments like these, it is natural for feelings of anger, confusion, and grief to surface.
“However, it is essential that we channel these emotions constructively, rather than allowing them to escalate into further discord or unrest.
“It is important to remember that this incident was an accident, and the individual involved did not intend for such a devastating outcome. We must approach this situation with empathy and understanding, recognizing that the anti-cult member is also grappling with the consequences of this unfortunate event while in police custody. Blame and hostility will not bring back Miss Nwayalani or heal the wounds inflicted upon our community.
“However, the President-General has assured us that justice for Isioma will be pursued diligently following a thorough investigation.
“Let us come together to support one another, especially the family of the deceased, and honour the memory of Miss Nwayalani by advocating for measures that will prevent such tragedies from occurring in our community in the future.
“This may include discussions on responsible firearm use, community safety initiatives, and the establishment of a central security control for the operations and activities of volunteer security outfits in Okpanam.
“We urge everyone, especially the family members, friends, and colleagues of Isioma, to remain calm with the assurance that justice must be served.
“In closing, let us remember Miss Isioma Nwayalani for the joy she brought to our lives and the positive impact she had on those around her. May we honour her memory by promoting peace and understanding in Okpanam.
“Thank you for your attention and cooperation on this matter,” the statement read.
The Delta State Police Command has yet to respond to the incident.
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