Following the tragic killing of a 300-level student of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai (IBBUL), by suspected phone snatchers off-campus, the Niger State Government has unveiled sweeping measures aimed at strengthening security across the university community.
At an emergency security meeting held on Monday, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Hamidu Mu’azu Jantabo, expressed deep condolences to the university community and the family of the deceased. He urged students to remain calm and law-abiding, warning that any attempt to disrupt public peace or destroy property would be met with legal consequences, especially under the provisions of the newly amended penal code.
As part of the immediate response plan, over 200 trained local vigilantes are being deployed to carry out routine day and night patrols in Lapai and its environs. The government is also establishing designated security checkpoints to control movement and deter criminal elements. In a bid to improve the safety of off-campus students, stricter regulations for landlords are being enforced to ensure that accommodations meet security standards.
The state government has partnered with the Niger State Urban Development Board (NSUDB) to clamp down on unapproved and illegal student lodges. To address power challenges in the area, a new transformer is being provided for immediate installation. Additionally, motorcycles and other logistics support have been made available to security personnel to enhance rapid response capability.
Rather than establishing permanent outposts, the government is introducing coordinated security patrols involving community and student stakeholders. Student security committees will also be formed to support surveillance efforts. Furthermore, all students will be required to carry valid identification cards at all times, while more community-based vigilantes will be recruited to support the operations.
The Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Mohammed Hadi Sulaiman, emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in securing lives and property. He encouraged students to be vigilant, know their neighbors, and report suspicious activities promptly. The Vice Chancellor also visited the Lapai Emirate Council to seek deeper collaboration with traditional authorities in promoting community-based security.
The emergency meeting was attended by top government officials, traditional rulers, security agencies, student leaders, and other critical stakeholders, all of whom pledged to take swift and coordinated action to prevent a recurrence of such tragic incidents. Special prayers were offered for the repose of the late student and for comfort to the bereaved family.
