By Esther Ososanya
The Niger State Government has pledged immediate security interventions following the killing of a 300-level student of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, by suspected phone snatchers at his off-campus residence.
In an emergency security meeting held in Lapai, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hamidu Mu’azu Jantabo, assured students that the state would not tolerate further violence against the university community.
The meeting had in attendance representatives from the Niger State House of Assembly, Ministry of Tertiary Education, Lapai Local Government Council, IBBUL Alumni Association, Students’ Union Government (SUG), NANISS, and various security agencies.
Students Warned Against Violence
Jantabo expressed condolences to the IBBU community and urged students to remain calm. He warned against violent demonstrations, cautioning that possession of weapons during protests would be met with prosecution under the state’s amended penal code.
200 Vigilantes to Patrol Student Areas
To strengthen off-campus security, the commissioner announced the deployment of over 200 trained local vigilantes to patrol student-dense areas. He also said official checkpoints would be established and monitored to prevent further attacks.
Jantabo criticised the poor state of off-campus hostels, noting that students pay as much as ₦400,000 for lodgings that lack basic security and infrastructure. He said the state government would partner with the Niger State Urban Development Board (NUDB) to inspect and shut down all illegal and substandard hostels.
Security Boost Measures Announced
As part of broader efforts to tackle insecurity in Lapai, motorcycles and surveillance tools will be supplied to security personnel. The state government will also enforce mandatory student identification, requiring all students to carry valid ID cards for safety screening.
University Management Reacts
The Vice Chancellor of IBBU, Prof. Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman, commended the swift response from the government and security agencies. He urged students to stay alert and report suspicious individuals or movements around their hostels and campus premises.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
