A 16-year-old student, identified as Paul, has tragically lost his life in Owerri, Nigeria, just a day after undergoing surgery for gunshot wounds inflicted by a landlord.
How the Tragedy Unfolded
Paul, a JSS 1 student at Urban Secondary School, was shot on Monday while attempting to retrieve a football that had accidentally landed in the compound of Par Excellence School, a private institution located in Area N, World Bank Housing Estate, Owerri, Imo State.
Eyewitnesses say Paul climbed the school’s fence to fetch the ball, but the school proprietor, who is also the landlord of the premises, fired at him twice using a pump-action gun, hitting him in the leg and buttocks.
Bystanders and fellow students rushed Paul to Specialist Hospital in Umuguma, where he underwent surgery. However, despite initial hopes of recovery, his condition deteriorated, leading to his death on Thursday afternoon.
Guardian Confirms Paul’s Death
Paul’s guardian, Mr. Jonathan Odikanwa, shared the devastating news:
“He has passed away. My son has passed away. The doctors just said they lost him. Even after the surgery yesterday, we had been hopeful that he would recover. My boy, who had lived with me for over seven years, has passed on.”
Landlord Arrested
The Imo State Police Command has arrested the Par Excellence School proprietor on charges of attempted murder, now likely to be escalated following Paul’s passing.
According to police spokesperson DSP Henry Okoye, investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances of the shooting.
Medical Complications Led to Death
Despite an initial X-ray showing no bullets inside Paul’s body, doctors later discovered a blockage in his bowel movements, prompting urgent surgery. Unfortunately, he did not survive the procedure.
Community Outrage
Paul’s tragic death has sparked outrage among locals, with many questioning the excessive use of force by the landlord. The case highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence and the safety of students in school environments.