Vice-Chancellor of University of Jos, Prof. Tanko Ishaya, has disclosed that there was no plan to relocate the institution from its current location.
Prof. Ishaya stated this on Thursday while fielding questions from journalists in the aftermath of recent attacks in Anguwan Rukuba community where some students were affected.
Two students were confirmed killed while three others, including a staff, were wounded in the incident.
Responding to a question on whether the University was considering relocation due to alleged threats, the Vice-Chancellor said there were no plans to that effect.
He emphasised that the university has continued to build understanding with its immediate host communities, with assurances of protection and what’s required to build cordiality and understanding with the communities it shares boundaries with.
“There are no plans to relocate the institution from its current location. We are working in collaboration with security operatives to ensure the safety of our students and staff.
“I have it on record and I can say without placing any doubt that since we actually came on boat we have never had any incident of any student attacked within our immediate communities. We have had assurances from the community leaders and they continue to give us that assurance,” Vice Chancellour said.
He said students residing within the immediate communities were protected by the community members.
“We have evidence of incidents where immediate communities came and said no students should come out and they are going to protect them,” he said.
Prof. Ishaya said the surrounding communities understand the significance of having the University close to them, in terms of social and economic activities besides education, that is impacting values to them.
“I visited Anguwan Rogo and other communities to talk to the leaders about the importance of peace around the university communities. I always seek their support to collaborate in ensuring the safety of our campuses.
“Unfortunately the students that got trapped by hoodlums were not within immediate University communities and virtually far around Bauchi Road,” he said.
Prof. Ishaya said the viral video showing chaotic situation at the University gate was false and AI-generated, aimed at misleading the public and causing confusion.
He added that the university management remains committed to dialogue with security agencies and community leaders to address emerging challenges promptly.
The attacks had heightened tension in Jos, prompting several state governments to evacuate students from the university.
