The management of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (JoSTM), formerly known as the Federal University of Agriculture Makurdi, has announced a one-week closure to address security challenges on campus.
The decision follows the abduction of four female students by unidentified gunmen on Tuesday night. Reports indicate that the attack occurred around 8:30 p.m. as the students were heading to a lecture hall to study. The assailants took them to an undisclosed location.
The incident has raised serious concerns among students, prompting calls for urgent action to ensure the safe return of those abducted.
In an official statement issued on Wednesday, the university’s Registrar, Dr. John David, condemned the attack and expressed sympathy for the victims and their families. To address the security situation, he announced a one-week mid-semester break and directed all students to vacate the hostels by 4:00 p.m. on February 26, 2025.
The statement read: “Following the distressing event on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at around 8:00 p.m., where armed individuals kidnapped three students between Zamfara Hostel and Ring Road in North Core, the university management has held discussions with security agencies and other stakeholders. We strongly condemn this act.
“The incident has been reported to the relevant authorities, and security agencies are actively working to ensure the safe return of the students. We urge all students, staff, and members of the public to remain calm while efforts continue.
“In light of this, the Inaugural Lecture scheduled for February 26, 2025, has been postponed indefinitely. Additionally, as a precautionary measure and in solidarity with the affected students and their families, a one-week mid-semester break has been declared to address the security situation on campus.
“Students are required to vacate their hostels by 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.”
The university assured the campus community that security measures are being strengthened to prevent further incidents.
