The Niger State Government has assured students of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai of maximum security of their lives and property.
The State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Honourable Hamidu Mu'azu Jantabo, Stated this during an emergency security meeting held in response to the tragic murder of a 300-level student allegedly attacked by phone snatchers in his off-campus residence.
The meeting brought together the Honourable Member representing Lapai Local government, the Honourable Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Chairman, Lapai Local Government,the Alumni National President, Students’ Union Government (SUG), NANISS Executive, the Director-General of Student Affairs, and top security operatives who sympathized with the unfortunate situation and made valid contributions on how to bring the security challenges in Lapai town under control.
Addressing the emotionally charged gathering, Honourable Jantabo expressed deep condolences to the University community and called for maturity, calm, and peaceful conduct in the face of grief.
“I want to appeal to the students: protests must be peaceful. When we arrived, we saw some individuals carrying sticks and dangerous objects. That is unacceptable. Once the new penal code is signed into law, such conduct could lead to prosecution,” he warned.
The Commissioner disclosed that discussions were underway to establish approved security checkpoints around the students community.
He hinted on possible deployment of over 200 trained local vigilantes for community and campus patrols.
The Commissioner further advocated for stricter regulations on landlords, proposing amendments to the University law to ensure student accommodations are built with basic security facilities.
“Students shouldn’t be paying ₦200,000 to ₦400,000 for lodges lacking gates, proper lighting, or security post. We must hold landlords accountable,” he emphasised.
He proposed a collaborative effort with the Niger State Urban Development Board (NUDB) to identify and take appropriate measures on unapproved lodges.
“I believe 95% of these lodges lack official approval. NUDB can verify these structures, and where necessary, enforce closure to ensure that students are not living in unsafe environments,” he stressed.
On infrastructure, Honourable Jantabo pledged immediate support to resolve power issues affecting the University by providing a new transformer and fixing the fault along the Minna-Lapai power line.
He also offered logistic assistance such as motorcycles and electronic logs to boost security patrol efficiency.
The Commissioner further encouraged greater collaboration between the University’s internal security, the student body, and local vigilante groups, noting that previous attempts at establishing permanent security outposts led to conflicts.
He, therefore, suggested coordinated patrols and the formation of student security committees as viable alternatives.
“Let us also enforce proper identification. Students should always carry their ID cards. The University should consider recruiting additional vigilante personnel to cover off-campus hostels, as over 80% of students reside outside the main campus,” he said.
Honourable Jantabo condemned the use of weapons during the student protests and appealed for restraint.
“We sympathize with the loss of your colleague, but we must respond with discipline and responsibility. Violent or intimidating protests will only overshadow your legitimate concerns. Please help us restore calm. The government is fully committed to working with the university and the students to deliver lasting security reforms,” he assured.
Also speaking at the emergency security meeting, the Vice Chancellor of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman, charged students residing off-campus to be vigilant and make deliberate efforts to know their neighbours and surroundings.
Professor Hadi stressed that while the University continues to work with relevant security agencies and government authorities to strengthen safety around the institution, students must also take personal responsibility for their security.
“Security is a shared responsibility. Students must be alert, observant, and informed about their environment. Don’t live in isolation. Know the people living around you and report anything suspicious,” he said.
All stakeholders at the meeting underscored the need for a well coordinated security surveillance on both the campuses of the University and the host community and urged the students to give peace a chance.
Similarly, as part of wider engagement efforts, the Vice Chancellor convened an emergency security meeting with the Lapai Emirate Council, led by His Royal Highness, the Emir of Lapai, Engr. Umar Bago III.
The meeting focused on traditional and community-based approaches to strengthening security around the University environment.
Professor Hadi emphasized the critical role of traditional institutions in maintaining peace, encouraging community vigilance, and fostering cooperation between residents and security stakeholders.
He acknowledged the pain and anxiety caused by the recent incident, describing it as an unfortunate tragedy that has shaken the entire University community, assuring that the University Management was fully engaged with stakeholders to find a lasting solution.
The Vice Chancellor reaffirmed the University’s commitment to students' welfare and welcomed the proposals presented by the Honourable Commissioner and other stakeholders.
He also encouraged students to channel their grievances through the proper channels and maintain decorum during advocacy or protest actions.
“This is a moment for reflection and responsibility. Let’s unite, not just in mourning, but in ensuring we never lose another student to such a senseless act,” Professor Hadi stated.
The emergency meetings concluded with a collective pledge by the State government, University authorities, traditional leaders, student representatives, and security agencies to implement swift and sustainable actions aimed at restoring safety, trust, and stability within and around the University community.
Prayers were offered for the repose of the deceased and for Allah (S.W.T) to comfort the family of the departed for the irreparable loss.
