A student of the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, was killed in the early hours of Monday during a suspected armed robbery incident at a students’ lodge in the Ndakikpabu area of the town.
The victim, identified as Jafar, was reportedly stabbed in the neck by the assailants around 2:30 a.m. and later died at the General Hospital in Lapai, where he was taken for treatment.
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University students blocked the Agaie–Lapai highway on Monday morning as they protested the incident.
According to a statement by the police spokesperson in the state, Wasiu Abiodun, officers from the Lapai Police Division responded to distress calls but arrived after the attackers had fled the scene.
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The incident is being treated as a case of “suspected armed robbery and culpable homicide,” Mr Abiodun said.
News of the killing sparked outrage within the university community, prompting many students to block the Agaie–Lapai highway in protest.
The demonstrators decried what they described as recurring insecurity around the university environment.
“The death of Jafar is one too many,” a protesting student told PREMIUM TIMES. “We live in fear every night. We want the government and the school authorities to act immediately.”
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In response, the police deployed tactical teams to restore order and assure students and residents of enhanced security.
The police spokesperson confirmed that an investigation has been launched and that the Commissioner of Police has directed the immediate arrest of those behind the attack.
Mr Jafar, according to sources, was the only child of his parents. His killing has plunged the family into deep grief.
The university is yet to issue an official statement.
