“19-year-old Nigerian Student Shot Dead by Police in Canada: A Tragic Loss for the Family and Community”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : “They sent their son to Canada for an education, but now he is returning home in a coffin.” The tragic incident involving the shooting of a 19-year-old Nigerian student, Afolabi Stephen Opaso, by Winnipeg police on New Year’s Eve has shocked the international student community and raised concerns about police handling of mental health situations.

Opaso, who was studying Economics at the University of Manitoba, was identified as the victim by Jean-René-Dominique Kwilu, a Winnipeg lawyer assisting the family. The young student’s family, who are not in Winnipeg, are devastated by the loss of their son, whom they had entrusted with the opportunity to pursue higher education abroad.

The incident occurred on December 31 around 2:20 p.m when police responded to reports of a man acting erratically in an apartment suite on University Crescent. Two officers arrived at the scene and found Opaso, along with two other individuals, inside the suite. According to Winnipeg Police Chief Danny Smyth, Opaso was armed with two knives, leading to a “use of force encounter” during which one of the officers discharged their weapon, fatally injuring Opaso. The two other individuals present were unharmed.

However, witnesses claim that Opaso was experiencing a mental health episode at the time and that the person who called 911 explicitly stated that it was a mental health situation and that Opaso posed no danger to anyone. This revelation raises questions about the police response to a mental health call and the escalation of force resulting in Opaso’s untimely death.

The tragedy has left Opaso’s family traumatized, as they grapple with the unimaginable loss of their son. They had sent him to Canada with hopes of a bright future, but instead, he is returning home in a coffin. The family is now seeking answers regarding the handling of the situation by the police and the circumstances that led to Opaso’s death.

The Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba (IIU) is currently investigating the incident. They have urged anyone with information related to the case to come forward and assist in the investigation. The IIU also announced that they would be requesting the Manitoba Police Commission to appoint a civilian monitor due to the gravity of the incident involving a loss of life. At this stage, the IIU has not provided any further details regarding the ongoing investigation.

The tragic death of Afolabi Stephen Opaso highlights the urgent need for improved protocols and training for law enforcement when dealing with individuals experiencing mental health crises. It also underscores the importance of open dialogue and cooperation between the police and the communities they serve. The international student community is left mourning the loss of a promising young individual whose life was cut short in a tragic and avoidable manner.

As this case continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues with compassion, empathy, and understanding. It is crucial that we strive for a society that prioritizes the well-being and safety of all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances. The tragic fate of Afolabi Stephen Opaso should serve as a catalyst for change and a renewed commitment to ensuring that no more lives are lost in such circumstances.

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