UNIJOS Confirms Two Student Deaths in Angwan Rukuba Attacks, Vows Tightened Security as Exams Resume

Timescope News 

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Tanko Ishaya, has confirmed that two students were killed in the March 29, 2026 attacks on Angwan Rukuba, while assuring that academic activities will continue under reinforced security.

Speaking at a press briefing in Jos, Professor Ishaya described the incident as “tragic,” noting that more than 25 people lost their lives when gunmen attacked the community, which houses many university staff and students.

“On behalf of the university community, I extend our deepest condolences to the people of Angwan Rukuba and other affected communities over this unfortunate incident,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that five members of the university community were directly affected—four students and one staff member. He confirmed the deaths of two students: Adeyemo Oluwafemi Temitope and Abel Joro Gershon.

“We deeply mourn their loss. We pray for the repose of their souls and comfort for their families,” Ishaya stated.

Providing further details, he explained that Abel Gershon, a 300‑level Building student, died on April 5 from a gunshot wound, while Adeyemo Temitope, a 500‑level Quantity Surveying student, was killed during renewed violence along Bauchi Road on April 1.

Other affected individuals include Ishaya Patrick, who is receiving treatment for a leg injury; Duguryil Ufialas Daniel, a staff member shot in the thigh; and student Longji Molshap Wumnokol, who remains under medical care for critical injuries.

The Vice-Chancellor noted that the attacks disrupted ongoing first‑semester examinations, prompting the university to reschedule affected papers following directives from the Plateau State Government, which imposed a curfew in Jos North Local Government Area.

“In line with government directives and to safeguard lives, management rescheduled examinations slated for March 30 and 31, as well as those of April 1 and 2,” he explained.

He clarified that despite students temporarily moving during the Easter break, the university was never shut down. “No directive was issued for total evacuation,” Ishaya emphasized.

According to him, academic activities resumed on April 7, while examinations are set to continue on April 13 to accommodate students who had traveled.

Professor Ishaya also revealed that university management worked closely with security agencies—including the police, Department of State Services, and the Joint Task Force—to strengthen security on and around campuses. “Security has since been significantly reinforced across campuses, surrounding roads, and the wider Jos metropolis,” he said, adding that no security breach was recorded within university premises throughout the crisis.

He reassured parents and students, stating: “We wish to reassure students, parents, and guardians that adequate security measures are in place to guarantee safety within the university and its environs.”

The Vice-Chancellor called on the media to promote accurate information and urged community leaders to sustain their support for peace. He also expressed appreciation to Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, security agencies, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders for their support during the crisis.

“Your support has been invaluable during this challenging time,” he said.

In her remarks, the Chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Plateau State Council, Ayuku Pwaspo, commended the Vice-Chancellor for the briefing and appealed for an increased security presence within the university to further enhance safety.