Niger Government Warns IBBU Students Over Violent Protests, Promises Security Overhaul

The Niger State Government has warned students of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, against carrying dangerous weapons during protests, stating that such conduct could become prosecutable under a new penal code awaiting approval.

The warning was issued by the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hamidu Mu’azu Jantabo, during an emergency security meeting convened after the killing of Abdulwahab Jafar, a 200-level Chemistry student, in an off-campus robbery on Monday.

Jantabo expressed concern over some students carrying sticks and other weapons during a protest that followed the incident. “Once the new penal code is signed into law, such conduct could lead to prosecution,” he said, urging students to keep demonstrations peaceful.

The commissioner also decried the state of off-campus student accommodation in Lapai, calling it both “exploitative and unsafe.” He criticised landlords charging between ₦200,000 to ₦400,000 annually for lodges lacking basic security infrastructure, such as gates and lighting, and called for legal reforms to enforce safety compliance.

In response to the worsening insecurity, Jantabo announced that over 200 trained vigilantes would be deployed to patrol student-dense areas, alongside the creation of approved security checkpoints.

Meanwhile, IBBU management declared Tuesday, 24th, and Wednesday, 25th June 2025, as lecture-free days in honour of the slain student.

This development comes amid another robbery incident just a day after Jafar’s murder. Suspected armed robbers invaded Malagi Lodge in Lapai’s State Low-Cost area at around 2:30 a.m. on Tuesday, carting away five iPhones, including an iPhone 14 Pro Max, and a black Haoju motorcycle—later recovered by police on Agaie Road.

The twin incidents have amplified student calls for improved security around the university and surrounding communities.