SAD! See How The First Known Victim Of Police Brutality In Nigeria Was Killed In 1971
Kunle Adepeju, a second- year student of Agricultural Economics at the University of Ibadan, remains an unforgettable name in the history of Nigerian student activism. His untimely death on February 1, 1971, marked a pivotal moment in the struggle for justice and accountability within Nigeria’ s academic institutions.
The events leading to Adepeju’ s tragic death were set in motion by widespread dissatisfaction among students at the University of Ibadan. The grievances primarily revolved around the poor state of the university’ s facilities, particularly the quality of catering services. At the center of the controversy was the hall manageress, whom students accused of inefficiency, dishonesty, and poor interpersonal relations. Determined to address these concerns, the students formally petitioned the Vice- Chancellor, Professor Lambo, demanding her immediate removal.
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However, the university administration was slow to act, dismissing the students’ complaints as trivial. This inaction ignited a wave of protests, beginning with students from Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall. The unrest quickly spread across the campus, escalating into a full- blown demonstration by Saturday, January 30, 1971.
In an attempt to quell the protests, the university management called in the police. Rather than de- escalating the situation, the presence of law enforcement only heightened tensions. On February 1, 1971, a peaceful protest turned deadly. Amid the chaos in front of Queen Elizabeth II Hall, a police officer fired into the crowd of unarmed students, and a stray bullet struck Kunle Adepeju. Accounts from eyewitnesses indicate that he was attempting to assist a fellow student who had been injured when the bullet hit him. Tragically, Adepeju died instantly, his body collapsing near the Queen’ s Hall bus stop.
Adepeju’ s death marked the first time in Nigeria’ s history that a student was killed during a campus protest. The incident underscored the heavy- handed approach often employed by law enforcement in dealing with civil unrest and became a rallying cry for justice and students’ rights.
In the aftermath, Kunle Adepeju was celebrated as a martyr for justice and fairness. His courage and selflessness in the face of adversity left an indelible mark on the Nigerian student movement. The memory of his sacrifice has been preserved in various ways, most notably through the Kunle Adepeju Building at the University of Ibadan. This structure, which houses the Students’ Union offices, stands as a lasting tribute to his legacy. Strategically located at a prominent spot on campus, it serves as a reminder to all students of the enduring importance of advocacy and collective action in defending their rights.
Kunle Adepeju’ s life and death exemplify the ideals of bravery and resilience. His story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by young people in the fight for justice and equality. More than five decades later, his legacy continues to inspire generations of students, reinforcing the need for a vibrant and progressive student union dedicated to championing the rights of its members.
Through annual memorials and continued advocacy, Nigerian students honor Kunle Adepeju as a symbol of courage and determination. His sacrifice remains a potent reminder that the fight for justice often comes at a great cost but leaves a legacy of hope and progress for future generations.
