FUDMA Closes After Student Protests Over Fatal Shooting

Federal University Dutsinma (FUDMA) in Katsina State has been forced to shut its doors following violent student protests triggered by the fatal shooting of a fellow student. Eyewitnesses and local sources reported that tensions reached a boiling point after members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) mistakenly opened fire on two students during an operation, believing them to be armed bandits. One student lost his life while his colleague sustained injuries, igniting a wave of anger and distress on campus.

Students, visibly shaken by the tragic turn of events, quickly mobilized in protest, converging on key university locations. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as demonstrators clashed with security personnel and vandalized campus property. Many students expressed their deep-seated frustration over what they described as an act of negligence and a blatant misuse of force. They demanded accountability from both the CJTF and the university administration for failing to ensure a safe environment.

In a decisive move to prevent further escalation, the FUDMA Senate convened an emergency session on the morning of February 24, 2025. After extensive deliberation, the Senate resolved to immediately suspend academic activities, ordering a complete shutdown of the campus. The decision also included the declaration of a one-week mid-semester break. Vice-Chancellor Professor Armaya’u Hamisu Bichi communicated the directive to the student body, urging all individuals to vacate the premises by 6:00 pm on the day of the announcement. Professor Bichi emphasized that the measure was taken in the interest of preserving peace and preventing any further loss of life.

Local community members and family relatives of the victims have called for an impartial investigation into the incident. Their demand centers on establishing clear accountability for the actions of the CJTF members involved. According to one community leader, the incident has not only shattered the sense of security among students and staff but has also raised serious questions about the operational protocols of security agencies on educational campuses.

The tragic incident has reverberated beyond the campus boundaries, prompting discussions among policymakers and educational stakeholders. Critics argue that this episode reflects broader systemic challenges, including the need for better coordination between security forces and academic institutions. As the investigation unfolds, there is a growing call for reforms that would safeguard student welfare and ensure that the actions of security personnel are subjected to strict oversight.

Authorities at FUDMA have assured all stakeholders that they are cooperating fully with the investigation. Meanwhile, the shutdown of the campus has disrupted academic schedules, prompting concerns among students about the potential long-term effects on their education. The administration has pledged to resume normal operations only after a thorough review of the incident and the implementation of enhanced security measures.

This unsettling episode at FUDMA stands as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between maintaining campus security and protecting the rights and lives of students. As investigations continue, the hope remains that decisive action will be taken to prevent a recurrence of such tragedies, restoring confidence in the institutions tasked with safeguarding the future of Nigeria’s youth.