Tragedy Strikes as Armed Robbers Fatally Stab 500-Level ATBU Student; Campus Mourns, Protests Ensue

In a shocking incident that has left the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) community in mourning, unknown gunmen attacked and killed Joseph Obiaje Agabaidu, a 500-level geology student. The assailants, suspected to be armed robbers, fatally stabbed Agabaidu in an attempt to steal his mobile phone, which he valiantly resisted.

Agabaidu, a final-year student from Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State, based in Benue State, succumbed to his injuries on Sunday morning, sparking sorrow and outrage among students. The late student was returning to his lodge near Yelwan Tudu market around 7 p.m. on Saturday when the tragic incident occurred.

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Expressing grief, a fellow student highlighted the urgency for improved security measures on and off-campus, citing the recurrent incidents of violence against students. The student implored the school management, police, and the Bauchi State government to prioritize and enhance student security.

As news of the heartbreaking loss spread, students at ATBU initiated a peaceful protest, demanding better security for off-campus residences. A notice circulating among students indicated the planned protest, scheduled at the ATBU Gate of the Yelwa Campus.

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In recent weeks, students residing off-campus, particularly in the Sabon Kaura neighborhood, have reported incidents of attacks by criminals, leading to concerns about the safety of students. The situation prompted a peaceful march from the university to the government house to register students' displeasure.