The Niger State Government has ordered the immediate closure of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, citing escalating security threats in and around the institution.
The decision was made public on Wednesday by the Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Usman, during a press briefing in Minna, the state capital. According to Usman, the move was necessitated by recent incidents that have endangered the lives of students, particularly the killing of a student near the university, which triggered unrest among the student body.
“The safety of all citizens, particularly students, is a top priority for the government,” Usman said, urging members of the university community to remain calm and to fully cooperate with security agencies as efforts to restore normalcy intensify.
The tragic incident that sparked the shutdown occurred earlier this week when Abdulkareem, a 300-level student of the institution, was brutally murdered at his off-campus residence by suspected phone snatchers. His death has since provoked widespread anger and protest from students, who have taken to the streets demanding justice, better security, and decisive government action.
In response to the unrest and growing insecurity, the government says it has launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the student’s death and vowed to apprehend and prosecute those responsible.
“Investigations are already ongoing, and we will ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous act are brought to justice,” Usman assured.
He also noted that the closure is a temporary, precautionary measure intended to prevent further escalation of tensions while allowing security agencies to properly address the situation. The government, he added, is already working closely with law enforcement to restore peace and stability to the area.
The development has cast a shadow over the university’s academic calendar, with no immediate timeline given for reopening. Parents, students, and stakeholders have expressed concern over the persistent security challenges facing the region, calling on the state and federal governments to step up protective measures around schools and other vulnerable communities.
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