UNIPORT, police confirm killing of student by suspected security operatives

The University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has confirmed the death of Godwin Akpakpan, a 300-level student of Computer Science, who was allegedly killed by unidentified security personnel.
Mr Akpakpan was reportedly apprehended by security operatives during a stop-and-search operation in Port Harcourt.
The incident occurred late on April 16 as the deceased was returning from his brother’s lounge.
A witness familiar with the incident told journalists that while the officers were conducting a search on Mr Akpakpan, an altercation ensued between the security personnel and a group of individuals dressed in military uniform.
The confrontation escalated into an exchange of gunfire, during which Mr Akpakpan was struck by a stray bullet and died at the scene.
Sam Kpenu, head of information, publications and public relations at UNIPORT, confirmed to journalists that the deceased was a registered student at the institution.
He stated that the university received news of the incident with profound shock and had commenced an internal inquiry to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
“UNIPORT is also actively engaging with the relevant security authorities to gain a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.
“We anticipate a thorough investigation and expect that appropriate action will be taken to hold those responsible accountable,” he said.
Mr Kpenu urged students and other members of the university community to remain calm and to allow the relevant agencies to carry out their investigations without disruption.
He affirmed the university’s unwavering commitment to the safety, dignity, and welfare of its staff and students, stating that necessary measures would continue to be implemented to uphold the principles.
“We extend our condolences to the Akpakpan family, his friends, and colleagues during this deeply distressing time.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with them,” Kpenu concluded.
SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the spokesperson for the police command in Rivers, also confirmed the death of Mr Akpakpan, stating that the command had launched an investigation into the incident.
She said that the fatal shot was not fired by a police officer, but rather by personnel identified as belonging to the military.
However, she declined to reveal the specific security agency involved.
“The Police Command is aware of the incident that resulted in the death of a 300-level student of UNIPORT.
“The command, in collaboration with a sister security agency, has commenced an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the student’s death.
“Preliminary findings indicate that the shot was fired by a military personnel,” Mrs Iringe-Koko stated.
(NAN)
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette

Agriculture
FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology
The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices

Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”

Politics
2027 Presidential Election: No single party can defeat Tinubu, says Onovo
“The coalition will win the 2027 election with 99 per cent votes if it is not self-sabotaged,” said Martin Onovo, a former presidential candidate.

Health
Plateau: Health agency develops inventory system to boost efficiency
He said PLASUPPLY aided in the overall effective management of raw materials, drugs, and other medical materials.

Economy
NACC says Nigeria yet to explore its technology potential fully
Wofai Samuel noted that as long as Nigeria remained unable to ensure stable power and technology, its growth would be hindered.

World
National Guard troops clash with LA protesters amid Trump, Gov Newsom standoff
Mr Newsom formally requested President Donald Trump’s administration to rescind the order to deploy the troops.

Sport
SWAN unveils 60th anniversary logo
SWAN president Isaiah Benjamin hailed the unveiling as a defining moment in the association’s history.

Opinion
How to end the deadly war on Nigerian women and children
A country rich in oil and gas. Rich in resources. But bankrupt in everything else, especially leadership.