By John Moses
The Niger State Government has vowed to enhance security measures for students of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU) in Lapai following the killing of a 300-level undergraduate, reportedly during a phone robbery.
The assurance was given by Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hamidu Jantabo, at an emergency meeting with community stakeholders and university authorities. He extended condolences to the bereaved family and the entire university community and called for calm amid growing tensions on campus.
“We understand the grief, but violent protest is not the answer,” Jantabo said, referencing reports of students carrying weapons during demonstrations. “The government will not tolerate lawlessness, and under the new penal code, such behaviour could lead to prosecution.”
Jantabo revealed plans for the deployment of over 200 trained local vigilantes to improve campus and community security. He also proposed the establishment of designated security checkpoints and called for tighter regulations on off-campus student accommodation.
“It is unacceptable for students to pay ₦200,000 to ₦400,000 for lodges without gates, lighting, or any form of security,” he stated. He added that the Niger State Urban Development Board (NUDB) would begin verifying and, where necessary, shutting down unapproved lodgings.
In a bid to improve infrastructure, the commissioner pledged to provide a new transformer and address faults along the Minna–Lapai power line. Additional logistical support, including motorcycles and electronic patrol logs, will be introduced to strengthen surveillance operations.
University Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Mohammed Sulaiman, echoed the commissioner’s sentiments, urging students to take personal responsibility for their safety. “Security is a shared responsibility. Know your neighbours, be alert, and report suspicious activity,” he said.
A separate meeting with the Lapai Emirate Council, led by Emir Umar Bago III, explored traditional and community-based strategies to enhance safety in the area. Stakeholders at both meetings pledged to work together to restore calm and ensure the protection of students.
Prayers were offered for the deceased student, and the university reiterated its commitment to supporting his family and preventing future tragedies.
