The Vice-Chancellor of University of Jos, Professor Tanko Ishaya, has confirmed the death of two students following the March 29, 2026 attacks in Angwan Rukuba, while assuring that academic activities will continue under reinforced security.
Speaking during a press briefing in Jos, Professor Ishaya described the incident as “tragic,” noting that more than 25 people were killed when gunmen attacked residents of the community, which houses many staff and students of the institution.
“On behalf of the University community, I extend our deepest condolences to the people of Angwan Rukuba and other affected communities over this unfortunate incident,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the violence directly impacted members of the university, with five individuals four students and one staff member affected. He confirmed that two students, Adeyemo Oluwafemi Temitope and Abel Joro Gershon, lost their lives.
“We deeply mourn the loss of Adeyemo Oluwafemi Temitope and Abel Joro Gershon. We pray for the repose of their souls and comfort for their families,” he stated.
Providing further details, Ishaya explained that Abel Gershon, a 300-level Building student, died on April 5 after sustaining a gunshot wound, while Adeyemo Temitope, a 500-level Quantity Surveying student, was killed during renewed violence along Bauchi Road on April 1.
Other affected individuals include Ishaya Patrick, who is receiving treatment for a leg injury, and Duguryil Ufialas Daniel, a staff member shot in the thigh. Another student, Longji Molshap Wumnokol, remains under medical care after sustaining critical injuries.
The Vice-Chancellor noted that the attacks disrupted ongoing first semester examinations, prompting the university to reschedule affected papers in line with directives from the Plateau State Government, which had imposed a curfew in Jos North Local Government Area.
“In line with government directives and to safeguard lives, Management rescheduled examinations slated for March 30 and 31, as well as those of April 1 and 2,” he explained.
He clarified that despite temporary movements of students during the Easter break, the university was never shut down.
“It is important to state clearly that the University was never closed, and no directive was issued for total evacuation,” Ishaya emphasized.
According to him, academic activities resumed on April 7, while examinations are now set to continue on April 13 to accommodate students who traveled.
Professor Ishaya also revealed that the university management worked closely with security agencies, including the police, Department of State Services, and the Joint Task Force, to strengthen security within and around the campuses.
“Security has since been significantly reinforced across campuses, surrounding roads, and the wider Jos metropolis,” he said, adding that no security breach was recorded within university premises throughout the crisis.
He reassured parents and students of their safety, stating: “We wish to reassure students, parents, and guardians that adequate security measures are in place to guarantee safety within the University and its environs.”
The Vice-Chancellor further called on the media to promote accurate information and urged community leaders to sustain their support in maintaining peace.
He also expressed appreciation to Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, security agencies, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders for their support during the crisis.
“Your support has been invaluable during this challenging time,” he said.
In her remarks, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Plateau State Council, Ayuku Pwaspo, commended the Vice-Chancellor for the briefing and appealed for increased security presence within the university to enhance safety.
