The University of Jos has confirmed the killing of two of its students following recent attacks in Jos, while three others—including a staff member—sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment in hospital.
Vice-Chancellor, Tanko Ishaya, disclosed this during a press briefing on Thursday, assuring that the institution will not be relocated despite the security challenges. He also announced that examinations will resume on April 13 after disruptions caused by the crisis.
The deceased students were identified as Abel Joro Gershon, a 300-level Building student who died from gunshot injuries sustained during the Angwan Rukuba attack, and Adeyomo Oluwafemi Temitope, a 500-level Quantity Surveying student who was reportedly killed by hoodlums along Bauchi Road on April 1.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, three other members of the university community—two students and a staff member—were injured in the attacks. They are currently receiving treatment at the Jos University Teaching Hospital and other medical facilities.
Prof. Ishaya said the incidents affected five members of the university community, leaving two dead and three injured. He extended condolences to the families of the deceased and to residents of Angwan Rukuba, where over 30 people were reportedly killed during the violence.
He emphasized that there are no plans to relocate the university, noting that management is working closely with security agencies to ensure the safety of students and staff.
“There are no plans to relocate the institution. We are collaborating with security operatives to strengthen safety measures across campus,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor explained that the university’s first semester examinations, which began on March 16, were disrupted due to the violence and the curfew imposed by the Plateau State Government. Papers scheduled for March 30 and 31, as well as April 1 and 2, were postponed.
He added that examinations will now resume on Monday, April 13, after the Easter break, to allow students who travelled to return safely.
Prof. Ishaya clarified that the university was never shut down and no directive was issued for mass evacuation, despite reports suggesting otherwise. He noted that normal academic activities resumed on April 7, with many students remaining on and off campus during the period.
He commended security agencies for their swift response, including visits by the Chief of Army Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, and the General Officer Commanding 3 Division, Folusho Oyinlola, who assured that the university remains a priority for security operations.
The Vice-Chancellor also acknowledged the support of the Plateau State Government led by Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, as well as healthcare providers, security agencies, and host communities for their roles during the crisis.
He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to maintaining peaceful relations with its host communities and strengthening collaboration with stakeholders to address security challenges.
The recent attacks have heightened tension in Jos, with some state governments evacuating their students from the institution as a precautionary measure.