The Federal Government of Nigeria had earlier condemned the untimely killing of 19-year-old Afolabi Stephen, a Nigerian student residing in Manitoba, Canada.
This condemnable incident has prompted a swift and resolute response from the Nigerians in the Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), as it vehemently expresses profound outrage over the alleged murder and fervently calls for justice on behalf of the grieving family.
Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman/CEO of NiDCOM, issued a statement characterizing the death of Afolabi Stephen as a heinous act of wickedness.
The statement, released by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Head of the Media, Public Relations, and Protocol unit of NiDCOM, underlines the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that those responsible for this tragedy are held accountable and brought to justice.
The Commission has actively engaged with the Nigerian mission in Ottawa, securing assurances from Canadian authorities that investigations into the unfortunate incident are underway and will be conducted meticulously.
NiDCOM extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Afolabi Stephen. The statement emphasizes the Commission’s sympathy, and it includes a heartfelt plea for the gentle and innocent soul of the deceased to rest in perfect peace.
Reports surrounding Afolabi Stephen’s death point to an alleged killing by policemen on December 31, 2023, in Manitoba, Canada. Despite the current lack of clarity regarding the circumstances leading to his tragic demise, the Winnipeg, Manitoba Police Department issued a statement through its website, Winnipeg.ca.
According to the police statement, officers responded to a distress call concerning a young male exhibiting erratic behavior. However, attempts to calm the situation proved futile, resulting in the discharge of a firearm by the police and, ultimately, the tragic death of Afolabi Stephen.
As investigations unfold, NiDCOM remains vigilant, closely monitoring the developments and urging authorities to conduct a transparent and comprehensive inquiry. The Commission stands resolute in its pursuit of justice, demanding accountability for the irreparable loss suffered by Afolabi Stephen’s family and the wider Nigerian community.
