The decision, announced late Wednesday by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Abubakar Usman, was prompted by a series of disturbing security breaches on and around the campus. The most recent incidents reportedly involved attacks on students by armed criminals, resulting in fatalities.
Government Responds to Security Concerns
In the statement, Usman expressed the government’s deep concern and sadness over the tragic events, noting that the closure was a necessary measure to protect lives and prevent further escalation. He called on students, staff, and members of the university community to remain calm, vigilant, and to cooperate with security agencies as investigations and remedial actions commence.
“The safety and security of all citizens, including the students, remain a top priority for the government,” the SSG stated.
He further assured the public that the state government is working diligently to restore order, bring perpetrators to justice, and ensure long-term peace across the university and the state at large.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have pledged a full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the recent attacks. While details remain sketchy, the government said it will leave no stone unturned in ensuring those responsible are identified and prosecuted.
Usman reiterated the administration’s commitment to upholding law and order, and protecting the lives and property of all residents in Niger State.
A Troubling Pattern
The closure of IBB University highlights growing concerns about insecurity in parts of Nigeria, particularly within institutions of higher learning. University campuses, typically seen as sanctuaries for learning and development, are increasingly becoming vulnerable to criminal activity due to inadequate security infrastructure and broader regional instability.
Next Steps
No timeline has been given for the reopening of the university. The government says the university will remain shut until it is deemed safe for academic activities to resume. Meanwhile, students and parents alike are calling for concrete action to prevent future tragedies and ensure a secure learning environment.
This latest incident adds to the mounting pressure on state and federal authorities to address security challenges facing educational institutions and to reinforce protection mechanisms across Nigeria’s school system.