Federal varsity shut over violent student protests

By Miracle Ogunde

Following violent protests by students over an alleged killing of their colleague, the management of the Federal University Dutsinmm Katsina State, on Monday, shut down the school.

According to reports, two students were allegedly shot by members of the Civilian Joint Task Force operating in the area, leading to the death of one.

A source, told Punch in Katsina on Monday morning that “some officials of the CJTF shot two students in error, thinking they were bandits’ informants.

“One of the students died on the spot while the other one was shot in the leg and has since been taken for medical attention in a nearby hospital.

“Following this development, students have been involved in violent protests since yesterday when the incident happened and they took to the streets in Dutsinma, burning vehicles as well vandalising property”.

Also speaking with PUNCH Online, a resident of the area, Mallam Usman, said the protesting students blocked the Dutsin-Ma–Katsina highway and set tyres on fire, drawing the attention of security forces.

“Military personnel and police officers arrived at the scene to restore order. The security forces reportedly employed a diplomatic approach, calming the situation without resorting to force.

“The demonstration extended into the town, with students chanting slogans and expressing their dissatisfaction over the incident”, the source said.

Meanwhile, the FUDMA Senate in a statement on Monday, announced the immediate closure of the school and directed students to proceed on a “one-week mid-semester break starting from Monday 24th”.

“The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Armaya’u Hamisu Bichi, announced the decision of the Senate and advised the students to leave campus before 6.00 pm Monday, 24th February 2025.

“The management wishes the students a happy and peaceful mid-semester break,” the statement stated.

Also, the Katsina State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq has confirmed the incident.

Sadiq stated, “Yes, I’m aware of the incident and I will release an official statement soon.”