- The CJTF members shot the students after mistaking them for bandits’ informants, a source who spoke in confidence with newsmen disclosed.
The Federal University Dutsinmm Katsina State, on Monday, halted all activities following the outbreak of violent protests and melee.
The students of the United were protesting the
alleged killing of their colleague by members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
Some members of the CJTF operating in the area were said to have shot two students, leading to the death of one.
The CJTF members shot the students after mistaking them for bandits’ informants, a source who spoke in confidence with newsmen disclosed.
“some officials of the CJTF shot two students in error, thinking they were bandits’ informants
“One of the students died on the spot while the other one was shot in the leg and has since been taken for medical attention in a nearby hospital.
“Following this development, students have been involved in violent protests since yesterday when the incident happened and they took to the streets in Dutsinma, burning vehicles as well vandalising property.” the source said.
A resident of the area, Mallam Usman, said the protesting students blocked the Dutsin-Ma–Katsina highway and set tyres on fire, drawing the attention of security forces.
“Military personnel and police officers arrived at the scene to restore order. The security forces reportedly employed a diplomatic approach, calming the situation without resorting to force.
“The demonstration extended into the town, with students chanting slogans and expressing their dissatisfaction over the incident”, Punch quoted him as saying.
Meanwhile, the FUDMA Senate in a statement on Monday, announced the immediate closure of the school and directed students to proceed on a “one-week mid-semester break starting from Monday 24th”.
“The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Armaya’u Hamisu Bichi, announced the decision of the Senate and advised the students to leave campus before 6.00 pm Monday, 24th February 2025.
“The management wishes the students a happy and peaceful mid-semester break,” the statement stated.
Also, the Katsina State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq has confirmed the incident.
Sadiq stated, “Yes, I’m aware of the incident and I will release an official statement soon.”