Refugee Commission Condemns Violent Attack on NOUN Centre, Calls for Calm

The National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons has condemned the recent attack on the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Centre in Nsu Ehime, Imo State. Federal Commissioner Tijani Aliyu Ahmed expressed deep dismay over the incident, which involved the burning of the university premises and several homes in the area.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Ahmed reiterated the commission’s commitment to its mandate of supporting refugees, returnee migrants, and displaced persons. He stated that the NOUN facility was intended to serve as a skills acquisition centre for training vulnerable individuals, including displaced persons and at-risk youth, and condemned the misinformation that led to the violent attack.

Zahra Ahmed Rufai, Head of Press and Public Relations for the commission, clarified in a statement that the commissioner’s visit to the centre was solely to assess its potential for vocational training and rehabilitation. She called on the media and the public to verify information to prevent the spread of false narratives that could incite violence.