Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Africa Links 24
Published on 2024-03-23 12:39:21
Prof. Suleiman Bala Mohammed, the vice chancellor of Nasarawa State University in Keffi, recently addressed a tragic incident that resulted in the death of two students and injuries to 14 others. The incident, a stampede, occurred when students and hoodlums from the neighborhood rushed to grab bags of rice donated by the state government to help alleviate economic hardships.
The bags of rice were stored at the university’s Convocation Square, awaiting distribution by the governor on Friday morning. However, before the governor arrived, the students and hoodlums overwhelmed the security personnel at the gate, entered the square, and began looting the rice. This chaotic situation led to the stampede, causing injuries and fatalities.
Professor Mohammed attributed the tragedy to the impatience of the students, stating that they did not wait for the orderly distribution of the rice. He expressed disappointment at the students’ lack of restraint, emphasizing that the government’s gesture was meant to provide relief, not chaos.
The vice chancellor acknowledged that the incident tarnished the university’s reputation and image. He promised to conduct an investigation to gather all the facts surrounding the stampede. He extended condolences to the families of the deceased students and offered thoughts and prayers for the injured and university community members.
In an appeal to the remaining students, Professor Mohammed urged them to focus on their academic activities, maintain peace, and abide by regulations. He warned that any further misconduct would result in the university being shut down, emphasizing the need for cooperation with the forthcoming investigation panel.
Addressing claims of inadequate security measures, Professor Mohammed asserted that sufficient security personnel were on site, including the military and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps. He refrained from drawing conclusions until the investigation panel completed its findings.
Governor Abdullahi Sule had previously provided assistance to students in tertiary institutions across the state by distributing bags of rice and cash. Similar gestures were planned for Nasarawa State University, but the premature looting of the rice led to tragic consequences before the governor’s arrival.
The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of patience, cooperation, and adherence to established procedures, especially during times of crisis. As the university community mourns the loss of two students and supports those injured, the call for unity, resilience, and respect for the rule of law remains paramount.
Ultimately, the aftermath of the stampede highlights the need for a thorough investigation, accountability, and a collective commitment to prevent such tragedies in the future. It is a time for reflection, learning, and healing as the university community navigates through this challenging period.
Read the original article on DailyNigerian.com
