The University of Jos (UNIJOS) has directed all students to vacate campus hostels following rising security concerns linked to a recent attack in Plateau State.
The decision comes after suspected bandits attacked Angwan Rukuba, a community near the university in Jos North LGA, leaving at least 28 people dead and several others injured. The incident triggered widespread outrage and led the state government to impose a 48-hour curfew in the area.
State officials, including Information Commissioner Joyce Lohya Ramnap, confirmed that Governor Caleb Mutfwang condemned the attack as “barbaric and unprovoked.”
According to Emmanuel Madugu, UNIJOS Deputy Registrar for Information and Public Relations, two students and a staff member were among those affected by the violence.
In response, the university has taken several precautionary steps, including postponing its 120th inaugural lecture and relocating the venue for its 50th pharmacy induction ceremony.
Vice-Chancellor Tanko Ishaya ordered the immediate evacuation of students, citing escalating tension and safety risks around the campus. The Plateau State government is supporting the evacuation by providing transportation, even during the curfew.
Students residing within Jos began leaving from Wednesday afternoon, while those traveling outside the city are scheduled for evacuation starting Thursday morning. Authorities say security has been strengthened across the campus and hostels.
The university management reassured the community of its commitment to safety and promised further updates as the situation develops. Earlier, all examinations for the week had been postponed until after the Easter holiday due to the deteriorating security situation.
