Plateau State University (PLASU) in Bokkos finds itself in turmoil following the violent suppression of student demonstrations over the tragic death of 200-level Computer Science student, Dading James Jordan. The student, along with a mother and her child, fell victim to a gruesome attack by Fulani herders in the nearby village of Chikam, a community closely linked to the university.
Investigations conducted by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) shed light on the circumstances surrounding the incident, revealing the harrowing details of the attack and its aftermath. According to FIJ sources, the Fulani herders, notorious for terrorizing Bokkos Local Government Area, launched a deadly assault on Chikam late Thursday night, resulting in the tragic loss of life.
The news of Dading James Jordan's death spread like wildfire across PLASU, sparking outrage and prompting concerned students to take action. Early the next morning, a wave of students descended upon Chikam to retrieve the remains of their fallen comrade and to voice their grievances through protest. However, their efforts were met with resistance from soldiers stationed at the university, tasked with maintaining order.
Despite attempts to deter the students, the protests persisted, escalating into chaos as tensions reached a boiling point. Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of chaos and violence as soldiers clashed with protesting students. The situation escalated rapidly, with reports of gunfire and the burning of military checkpoints. Tragically, amidst the chaos, one student lost their life, while another sustained serious injuries.
"The soldiers fired indiscriminately, and we had to lie down to avoid getting hit," recalled a student present during the clash.
In the aftermath of the violent confrontation, PLASU management made the difficult decision to close the campus for ten days, citing concerns for the safety and well-being of students and staff. In a press statement issued by the university's registrar, Yakubu Ayuba, the suspension of ongoing examinations was announced, with plans to resume academic activities on May 2nd.
As the campus reels from the fallout of the tragic events, questions linger regarding the actions of security forces and the underlying tensions fueling the protests. Meanwhile, the Plateau State Police Public Relations Officer, Alfred Alabo, remained tight-lipped, deferring comments until the release of an official press statement.
For now, the PLASU community mourns the loss of a fellow student and grapples with the aftermath of a violent clash that has left scars on both individuals and the institution itself. As investigations continue and tensions simmer, the road to reconciliation and healing remains uncertain.
