Amnesty seeks justice for Minna footballer shot dead by ‘drunk policemen’

Amnesty International Nigeria has demanded justice for slain Minna footballer, Sani, allegedly killed by drunk policemen.

Mr Sani was allegedly shot dead in Minna, Niger State on Monday at his neighbourhood tea stall without committing any crime.

“The Nigerian authorities must immediately and impartially investigate the killing of a footballer Sani by a policeman at New Market Sabon Gari Chanchaga LGA of Niger state. Sani was shot dead by the police while sleeping at his friend’s tea stall,” Amnesty said in a statement on Monday.

“Witnesses told Amnesty International that the killers of Sani were heavily drunk and went a shooting spree in the community. Sani was buried today.

“Nigerian police frequently use routine patrols to carry out gross human rights violations, including extra-judical executions, harassment, torture and extortion.

“For decades, Nigeria police had been targeting youth with utter disregard for the rule of law. It is unacceptable that despite many pledges of reforms, the police in Nigeria continue to operate with complete impunity, while fomenting a toxic climate of fear and corruption.”