…As VC condemns misinformation
The authorities of the University of Jos have expressed disappointment over the spread of misinformation following recent security incidents that affected parts of Jos and, to some extent, the university community.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Professor Tanko Ishaya, made the institution’s position known on Thursday during a press conference held at the University Senate Chambers. He reassured the public that the university remains safe and is set to resume academic activities.
Addressing journalists, Professor Ishaya stated that some individuals had exploited artificial intelligence tools to create and circulate fake content targeting the University of Jos, thereby escalating tension and creating the impression that the entire university community was under siege.
He disclosed that the institution recorded casualties during the incident, noting that two students lost their lives, while two other students and a staff member sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment in hospitals.
“We have a total of five members of the University of Jos affected – four students and one staff member. Unfortunately, we lost two of the students,” he said.
He further added, “As of this morning, we sadly confirmed the loss of two of our dear students, while two students and one staff member sustained varying degrees of injuries.”
The Vice-Chancellor clarified that the university community was not the primary target of the attackers, explaining that those affected were caught in the wave of violence in areas far from the university campuses.
Professor Ishaya explained that management temporarily suspended academic activities in consideration of the Easter celebrations and the safety concerns at the time. He announced that the suspended semester examinations will now resume on Monday, April 13, 2026.
“Examinations will continue on Monday, 13th April 2026,” he stated. He added that the decision to shift the examination date was made to accommodate students who had traveled during the period of uncertainty.
The Vice-Chancellor recalled that the incident caused widespread panic among students and staff, particularly those living off-campus, especially in areas such as Angwan Rukuba, where a shooting incident occurred on Palm Sunday, resulting in the loss of 28 lives.
He also acknowledged the efforts of the Plateau State Government, security agencies, and concerned individuals who provided vehicles to evacuate students to safer locations during the crisis.
Professor Ishaya commended the security agencies and the Plateau State Government for their swift response in restoring calm and ensuring the safety of lives and property within and around the institution. He assured that adequate security measures have since been put in place to safeguard the entire university community.
