No fewer than seven state governments have evacuated at least 1,630 students of the University of Jos following rising insecurity in Plateau State triggered by a recent deadly attack.
The mass evacuation comes in the wake of the March 29 assault on a popular relaxation spot in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area, where gunmen reportedly opened fire, killing at least 28 persons and injuring several others.
The incident sparked widespread outrage and heightened tension across the state, forcing the Plateau State Government to impose a 48-hour curfew in the affected area.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, through the Commissioner for Information, Joyce Ramnap, had condemned the attack, describing it as “barbaric and unprovoked,” while ordering security agencies to restore calm.
Amid growing fears, the management of the University of Jos suspended ongoing examinations and ordered students to vacate hostels, citing safety concerns due to the institution’s proximity to the troubled community.
Findings by PLATFORM TIMES revealed that at least seven states swiftly moved to evacuate their indigenes from the institution over the past five days.
The Lagos State Government confirmed the evacuation of over 230 students, deploying buses accompanied by security escorts to ensure their safe return.
Similarly, the Delta State Government evacuated 34 students, attributing the decision to the temporary closure of the university and prevailing security threats.
Adamawa State also evacuated about 120 students under tight security, while Cross River State confirmed the relocation of 37 of its indigenes.
Benue State carried out one of the largest evacuations, moving about 600 students out of Jos. Governor Hyacinth Alia said the action was necessary to safeguard the lives and future of the students.
“This decision became necessary as it concerns the lives and welfare of our people, especially the future leaders studying outside the state,” he said.
Bauchi State Government evacuated 64 students following a distress call indicating that many were trapped in hostels amid the unrest.
In the same vein, Nasarawa State evacuated 545 students in collaboration with the state students’ association, days after the attack.
The wave of evacuations underscores growing concerns over the safety of students and residents in Plateau, as authorities battle to contain the deteriorating security situation.
As of press time, security agencies were yet to announce any arrests in connection with the attack, while normal academic activities at the university remain suspended pending further review.
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