Armed bandits att@ck Plateau State University, one student k!lled

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Armed bandits invaded the Plateau State University in the Bokkos LGA on Friday, April 19, 2024.

According to reports, at least one student was k!lled in the attack that lasted for several mins.

The deceased student is said to be a 200-level Computer Science student.

In videos obtained online, students were seen scampering to safety amid sounds of gunshots.

The university’s Registrar, Yakubu Ayuba announced the shutdown of the institution in a statement on Friday.

He said, “Following the sad incident that occurred in Plateau State University Bokkos and the surrounding community on Friday 19 April 2024; and because of the psychological effects of the unfortunate incidents on the students and staff of the university, the management has taken the painful decision to close the university for ten days with effect from today, 19th April, 2024.

“This decision is to allow the security situation to improve and to lessen the human risk to the university community.

“Accordingly, the ongoing first semester examinations are hereby suspended and to resume on Thursday 2nd May,2024.”

The Registrar added that the “management has made available buses to convey students who may be stranded from the university to Barkin Ladi today Friday, 19th April 2024.”

Meanwhile, the Visitor to the University and State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang has condemned the renewed attacks in the institution and other communities while calling for enhanced security to safeguard the lives of the people in the affected areas

As contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, he said, “Following the tragic attack on Chikam, a community neighbouring Plateau State University Bokkos, which resulted in the loss of a 200-level Computer Science student, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has appealed for calm as security agencies are working to restore normalcy.

“While condemning the attack as barbaric, Governor Mutfwang reassured citizens, particularly students, of the government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding their lives and property.

“The Governor urged them to remain composed in the face of the tragedy, as the government is determined to apprehend and prosecute those responsible for the heinous acts.”

The statement noted that Mutfwang “stressed the importance of collaboration among the university management, students, community leaders, and security agencies for enhanced security and the safety of everyone in the area.

“He commended the swift response of security agencies to violent incidents, and encouraged them to remain steadfast in fulfilling their constitutional duty to protect innocent citizens.”

Mutfwang condoled with the family of the deceased student and for the swift recovery of the injured.

Sources informed said that the bandits attacked other communities such as Tilengpat and Butura while residents were asleep. The gunmen reportedly began shooting sporadically from 9 p.m. on Thursday.