The Niger State Government has assured students of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, IBBU, Lapai, of enhanced security following the killing of a 300-level student by suspected phone snatchers at his off-campus residence.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hamidu Mu’azu Jantabo, gave the assurance during an emergency meeting with stakeholders in Lapai.
Also present at the meeting were representatives of the state legislature, Ministry of Tertiary Education, Lapai Local Government, IBBUL Alumni Association, Students’ Union Government, SUG, NANISS, and security agencies.
Jantabo expressed condolences to the university community and urged students to remain calm. He warned against violent protests, noting that those found with weapons could face prosecution under the amended penal code.
He said over 200 trained local vigilantes would be deployed to patrol student areas, and official checkpoints would be established to enhance security.
“Students are paying up to N400,000 for lodges that lack basic security,”; he said, stressing the need for landlords to provide proper infrastructure.
The commissioner also disclosed plans to work with the Niger State Urban Development Board, NUDB, to inspect and shut down unapproved student hostels.
He added that motorcycles and surveillance tools would be provided to security personnel, while students would be required to carry ID cards for proper identification.
IBBU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman, urged students to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.
