Students of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi (JOSTUM), Benue State, have expressed deep concerns over what they perceived as negligence on the part of the university management and security authorities, following the abduction of four female students by gunmen on Tuesday night.
The incident, which has left the university community in shock, has sparked outrage among students, who were calling for increased security measures and immediate action to ensure the safety of all members of the campus.
LEADERSHIP reports that gunmen abducted the female students between 8 pm and 9 pm Tuesday night from the North Core Hostels of the university premises.
As of the time of filing this report, it was gathered that most students were leaving the school for fear of another attack.
However, the student union of the institution blamed the lack of security on the campus for the incident.
They also lamented the inability of the school management to provide perimeter fencing, which has exposed the school to outside attacks.
Comrade Elum Shadrach, Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Students’ Union Government, called on the university management, the Benue State Government, and the Federal Government of Nigeria to take immediate and decisive action to ensure the safe return of the kidnapped students and to put an end to the growing insecurity on the campus.
He said the unfortunate event has further exposed the alarming security lapses within the university environment, posing a grave threat to the safety and well-being of all students.
“We condemn in the strongest terms the failure of the university management to provide adequate security, despite repeated calls and complaints from students regarding the worsening security situation on campus.
“The continued negligence has now resulted in the kidnapping of our fellow students, leaving us vulnerable and in fear for our lives.
“At this moment, we urge all students to remain calm and vigilant. We understand the fear and frustration this situation has caused, and we sincerely apologize for the distress and trauma it has inflicted upon you.
“The Students’ Union stands in solidarity with you and will not relent in demanding justice and urgent intervention.
“We demand a detailed and valid response from the university management within 48 hours regarding the security situation and the immediate measures being taken to prevent further attacks on students. Failure to do so will compel us to take decisive action in defense of our collective safety,” he added.
A concerned student, Comrade Bunde Raphael Shamnenge, said the egregious act has fostered a pervasive sense of vulnerability, fear, and uncertainty throughout the campus.
“I join my voice with others in advocating for a stay-at-home protest until the kidnapped students are safely returned and adequate measures are implemented to prevent such incidents in the future.
“The university administration and relevant authorities must be held accountable for providing a secure environment conducive to learning and growth. We demand a comprehensive investigation into this incident, increased security presence on campus, and support for the families of the kidnapped students,” he stated.
