Nigerian Student’s Death In Canada Sparks Community Grief, Calls For Justice

The Nigerian community in Manitoba is reeling after the tragic death of 19-year-old Afolabi Stephen, killed by police in Winnipeg on December 31, 2023.

While details of the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, the Winnipeg Police Service confirmed responding to a call about an “erratically acting” young man. Their attempt to calm him escalated, resulting in an officer discharging a firearm and fatally wounding Stephen.

The Nigerian Association of Manitoba (NAMI) expressed deep sorrow and urged calm within the community.

In a statement, NAMI President Vera Keyede extended condolences to Stephen’s family and friends, acknowledging the “anxiety, frustration, and sadness” this incident has caused. They urged members to avoid escalating tensions and trust the ongoing investigation.

The statement read, “The Nigerian Association of Manitoba wishes to express her deepest concern and regret over the unfortunate incident involving the shooting that led to the death of a Nigerian international student, by the Winnipeg Police Service on the 31st of December 2023.

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“We extend our condolences to the deceased family and friends. We understand the anxiety, frustration, sadness and distress this incident has caused within our community. We plead with everyone not to engage in any activity that may cause any tension or hinder the process of investigation and the law.

“This is a challenging time for all of us, we need the Nigerian community to remain calm and composed as investigations are underway. We acknowledge the community’s right to seek answers and justice for one of our own. NAMI is closely monitoring the situation and seeking guidance on how to proceed.

“NAMI will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available to us. We extend our support to those directly or indirectly affected by this unfortunate incident and we cannot over-emphasise the need for solidarity during these challenging times.”

This incident adds to a disturbing trend. According to a recent report, approximately 300 Nigerians have been murdered extrajudicially abroad in the past seven years.

In 2022, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa highlighted similar concerns, noting 13 deaths without resolution in Northern Cyprus over six years.