By Aisha Maikudi Abdulkadir
Students of Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, have lamented over the increasing cases of rape, robbery and extortion within and around the university community.
In a passionate appeal that has since gone viral on social media platforms in the state, the students described the security situation as alarming, noting that they live daily in fear for their lives.
“We are not safe. Robbery and rape cases happen every day within the students’ community in KWASU and we are tired,” one of the students lamented.
The students alleged that criminal attacks have become a routine occurrence, especially in private hostels located off-campus.
They said many students have fallen victim to rape, theft and physical assault, with little or no protection from security agencies among other worrying concerns.
They called on the state government and school authorities for urgent intervention.
Responding to the development, the school has announced measures to forestall further attacks.
In a statement signed by the registrar, Dr Kikelomo Sallee, the university said a joint patrol team comprising the police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and local community security personnel had been deployed to the area to restore safety.
Meanwhile, the university on Monday imposed restrictions in the school community to curb the spate of robberies.
In a statement by Dr. Saeedat Aliyu, Ag. Director, University Relations, motor bikes have been restricted from operating from 10 pm while all commercial activities and all movements are to cease at 11 pm.
“All generator sets must be put off by 12 pm and no night parties would be held in the community henceforth,” she said.
According to her, the resolution to impose restrictions was arrived at during the stakeholders’ meeting on Monday attended by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shaykh-Luqman Alade Jimoh and his extended management team including Moro LGA chairperson, traditional rulers and security agencies.