Nurse Dies After ‘Accidental Discharge’ of Bullets in Delta State

A stray bullet fired by a member of an Anti-Cult group has killed a nurse in Okpanam, Delta State. The shooting occurred on Saturday evening as the group, reportedly in a gyrating mood, discharged the weapons into the air.

Eyewitnesses say the Anti-Cult group had just returned from a burial ceremony in Agbor, Ika South LGA, when the incident took place.

The bullet hit the woman, identified as Miss Isioma Nwayalani, who was promptly taken to Asaba Specialist Hospital but was pronounced dead around 7:30 pm.

The Okpanam Youth Organisation (OYO) has since confirmed the death, attributing it to what they described as an “accidental discharge” from the rifle of one of the Anti-Cult members. Comrade Fidelis Okonma, Secretary-General of OYO, urged the community to remain calm and avoid inflaming tensions. In a statement, he expressed condolences, stating, “The loss of Miss Nwayalani is a profound tragedy that has impacted not only her family and friends but also the entire community.”

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However, Comrade Victor Ojei, Lead Advocate for the Young Nigerian Rights Organisation, criticized the actions of the Anti-Cult group, urging the Delta State government to take action. Ojei rejected the term “accidental discharge,” calling it a result of negligence and recklessness. “If the gun was not meant to be fired, why was it cocked in the first place? This is carelessness, and it should be treated as such,” he said.

Local residents have expressed growing concerns about the safety of their community, citing frequent reckless use of firearms by the group. Ojei called for justice for the late nurse, emphasizing that a gun’s safety should always be engaged unless there is a direct threat.

In response, Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, confirmed the arrest of the Anti-Cult group member involved in the shooting. Investigations are ongoing.

This incident has sparked a wave of emotions in the community, with many calling for stronger regulation of armed groups in the area. As the investigation continues, local leaders are appealing for unity and restraint, urging the public to avoid further escalation of the situation.