By Sekyen Walshak
The vice-chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Tanko Ishaya, has assured students, parents, and the general public that the institution remains safe and fully operational following the March 29 attacks in Angwan Rukuba, which left over 25 people dead.
Speaking during a press briefing in Jos, the Vice-Chancellor described the incident as tragic, noting that the affected community hosts a significant number of university staff and students.
He said the situation prompted immediate action by the Plateau State government, which imposed a 48-hour curfew in Jos North Local Government Area to restore calm.
According to him, the unrest disrupted ongoing first semester examinations, forcing the university to reschedule papers initially slated for March 30 and 31, as well as those fixed for April 1 and 2.
“Management took these decisions in line with government directives and in the interest of safeguarding lives,” he said.
Professor Ishaya explained that although students were allowed to travel for the Easter break, the university was never shut down, contrary to widespread speculation.
“There was no directive for total evacuation. Academic activities resumed on April 7, while examinations will continue on April 13 to accommodate students who traveled,” he added.
He, however, confirmed that five members of the university community were affected by the violence, four students and one staff member, with two students losing their lives.
The deceased Mr. Abel Joro Gershon, a 300-level student who died from injuries sustained during the Angwan Rukuba attack, and Mr. Adeyemo Oluwafemi Temitope, a 500-level student who was killed during a separate incident along Bauchi Road.
Two other students and a staff member are currently receiving treatment at the Jos University Teaching Hospital and other medical facilities.The Vice-Chancellor emphasized that none of the violent incidents occurred on the university campuses, stressing that security was not breached at any time.
“To the best of our knowledge, no attack took place on our campuses. The unfortunate incidents happened outside, in areas experiencing unrest,” he clarified.
He disclosed that the university has since intensified collaboration with security agencies, including the police, Department of State Services, and military authorities, to strengthen safety measures.
Senior security officials, including the General Officer Commanding 3 Division, visited the institution to reassure management of improved security deployment across Jos and its environs.Professor Ishaya also dismissed calls for the relocation of the university, describing such suggestions as impractical.
“This university has taken over 50 years to build. Relocating it would require enormous resources and time. More importantly, universities thrive within communities, and what we need is stronger collaboration, not relocation,” he said.
He noted that the institution has maintained a cordial relationship with its host communities, which have played a supportive role in protecting students during periods of tension.
“In fact, we have assurances from community leaders, and there is evidence that they have taken steps to safeguard students in difficult times,” he added.
On long-term security plans, the Vice-Chancellor revealed that the university is working towards developing a fully secured campus with defined perimeters and enhanced physical and digital surveillance systems.
He said management is also mapping high-risk areas in collaboration with security agencies to ensure safer movement for students and staff.
Professor Ishaya urged students to adhere strictly to safety advisories, especially during periods of instability, noting that some of the affected students had left campus for personal errands when they encountered violence.
He further called on the media to support efforts aimed at promoting accurate information and preventing panic.The Vice-Chancellor expressed appreciation to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, security agencies, medical personnel, and community leaders for their support during the crisis.
“We remain committed to ensuring the safety of our staff and students while sustaining academic activities,” he said.