An atmosphere of grief and outrage hung heavy over a quiet hospital ward in Makurdi as Comr. Akighirga Vitalis, President of the Rev. Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University (MOAUM) Students’ Union, stood at the bedside of Rose Adikwu, a 200-level Political Science student.
Wreathed in bandages and bearing severe burns, Rose recounted the traumatic attack allegedly inflicted upon her by someone she once trusted: her own cousin and co-tenant, Agbo Felicia. She spoke to the Students’ Union leader and members of the Students’ Union executive, who had paid her a visit at a private hospital in Makurdi, where she is currently receiving treatment for her burns.
According to the account given by Rose, the incident occurred following a prolonged disagreement with her cousin, Agbo Felicia, a 500-level student in the Department of Chemistry. The two had been living together until disputes over personal matters escalated.
Rose alleged that after the disagreements became unbearable, she asked Felicia to vacate the apartment. She claimed that after Felicia agreed and packed her belongings, she went to a neighbour’s room, boiled water, and allegedly mixed it with pepper, salt, onions, and seasoning.
“She then returned to the apartment and poured the hot mixture on me, locked the door, and left me inside while I cried for help,” Rose alleged.
The incident reportedly drew the attention of residents, who intercepted Felicia as she attempted to leave the scene. The Police were invited, and she was arrested. As of the time of this report, she remains in police custody.
Visibly shaken by the severity of Rose’s injuries, Comr. Vitalis offered firm promises of support to her and her family. He condemned the alleged attack in strong terms, describing it as “a grave and unacceptable assault on the life and well-being of a fellow student,” and pledged that the Students’ Union would ensure the matter is met with the full force of the law and university regulations.
“We are deeply concerned about this incident. The Students’ Union will follow this matter closely until justice prevails,” Comr. Vitalis told Rose and her family.
He assured them that the Union would engage relevant authorities and monitor both the criminal investigation and any institutional disciplinary process to ensure the case receives due attention.
The SU President further stated that if the allegations are established through due process, he would support the application of the full range of sanctions provided under the University’s regulations, including expulsion where warranted.
“The Students’ Union will not condone violence or any conduct capable of endangering the life of another student,” he said.
Comr. Vitalis also urged students to refrain from violence, intimidation, and assault, and to channel grievances through appropriate channels.
“I encourage students experiencing personal disagreements to seek intervention from University authorities, Students’ Union structures, or law enforcement agencies rather than resorting to violence,” he said.
He reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to the welfare, safety, and protection of all students, and pledged to take necessary steps within the law to ensure a peaceful and secure learning environment on campus.
The visit was confirmed in a statement signed by Ukor Mark Tyodoo, Chief Press Secretary to the Students’ Union President.
When contacted, the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Peter Aondongu, confirmed the arrest and said investigations are ongoing.
