Authorities of the Federal University Lokoja have announced an indefinite closure of the institution following days of student protests over the tragic deaths of their colleagues in a road accident.
The protests erupted on Monday after a trailer crashed into the university’s shuttle bus, killing seven people on the spot.
Outraged by the incident, students took to the streets, barricading the university gates despite interventions from the Kogi State Government and appeals from school authorities.
In response to the escalating unrest, the university’s registrar, Dr. Rebecca Aimiohu Okojie, issued a circular (Ref. No. FUL/R/GEN/REGC/03) on Thursday, directing all students to vacate both campuses immediately.
The statement, also copied to security agencies, cited safety concerns and advice from state security officials as the reason for the shutdown.
“Following the unfortunate loss of five students in a tragic trailer accident at Felele city center on Monday, February 17, 2025, students have continued to barricade the university gates despite interventions from the state government and repeated appeals from the university management for calm.
“To prevent further loss of lives, the Vice-Chancellor, after due consultation with the management, has decided on behalf of the Senate that the university be closed indefinitely. Students are to vacate the campuses no later than 12 noon on Thursday, February 20, 2025,” the circular read.
