The Delta State Police Command has arrested a member of an anti-cult volunteer corps following the death of a 19-year-old auxiliary nurse, Isioma Nwayalani, who was killed by a stray bullet in Okpanam Community, near Asaba.
According to police spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, the incident occurred on Saturday and the suspect is currently in custody as investigations continue.
“Yes, the unfortunate incident is confirmed, and we are investigating to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Updates will be provided upon conclusion of the investigation,” Edafe said on Sunday in Asaba.
Eyewitnesses alleged that the operative was shooting sporadically with his colleagues to celebrate their return from a burial ceremony in Agbor.
During the gunfire, Nwayalani—who worked in a patent medicine store located on the ground floor of the building housing the anti-cult office—was hit in the hand and stomach while attempting to flee to safety with a colleague.
She was rushed to the Delta State Specialist Hospital in Okpanam but was pronounced dead around 7:30 p.m.
A grieving relative, Christopher Nwayalani, described the incident as tragic and avoidable.
He revealed that Isioma, a Sabbatharian who typically did not work on Saturdays, had only stopped by to visit a colleague after a failed attempt to visit a nearby salon.
“Her life was cut short by the recklessness of an excited operative. We want justice for her,” he said, expressing frustration over the lack of response from the anti-cult unit’s authorities.
Also speaking on the matter, human rights activist Victor Ojei of the Young Nigeria Rights Organisation called for accountability, emphasizing that the incident was not an “accidental discharge” but a case of criminal negligence.
“A firearm should only be cocked in response to a threat. There is no excuse for this level of recklessness,” he stated