Jos crisis: Students seek government intervention, others
The crisis in Jos, marked by reports of killings, destruction of property, and rising tensions in surrounding communities, has once again raised serious concerns about the safety of residents, particularly
The crisis in Jos, marked by reports of killings, destruction of property, and rising tensions in surrounding communities, has once again raised serious concerns about the safety of residents, particularly students. The imposition of curfews by state authorities, while intended to restore order, has significantly altered the rhythm of daily life. For students, this has meant more than just restricted movement; it has reshaped their academic experience and sense of security. Nevertheless, students appeal to the government to act swiftly and decisively to forestall a recurrence. FATHIA OMILEYE (FUOYE) reports.
As violence grips Jos, students face fear, displacement, and disruption to studies.
For many students, university life is expected to be a period of learning, growth, and social interaction. It is often imagined as a safe space where young people can pursue academic excellence while building friendships and shaping their future. However, for students in Jos, Plateau State, this expectation has recently been disrupted by recurring violence and insecurity, forcing many to confront a harsh and unsettling reality.
Jos, a city historically known for its cultural diversity but also its episodes of conflict, has become an environment of uncertainty in recent weeks. As violence spreads across parts of the state, students within and around the city find themselves caught in the middle of circumstances beyond their control. Academic institutions, which should ideally function as stable centres of learning, are now directly affected by the instability of their surroundings.
For many students, everyday activities have become increasingly difficult. Attending lectures, studying in libraries, or participating in group discussions now requires careful planning around curfew hours. What used to be normal routines are now constrained by fear and caution. Lectures are sometimes postponed or cancelled entirely, disrupting carefully structured academic calendars.
However, with University of Jos (UNIJOS) shut and academic activities suspended due to security concerns after at least 27 persons were killed by gunmen in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North LGA on March 29, students across universities have urged the Federal Government to act decisively on the matter and ensure students return to their classes.They urged the government to address the underlying issues fuelling recurrent violence in the state.
Rahmatallah Ajayi, a 300-Level Law student at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, explained the depth of the situation. According to her, the crisis goes beyond a simple security issue, it is affecting students’ education, mental health, and future plans. “When violence reaches the city and curfews are imposed, students are no longer able to learn effectively because fear replaces concentration. Many students in UNIJOS and nearby schools are likely more concerned about their safety than their academics.
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“The psychological toll of living in such conditions cannot be overlooked. Students who should be focusing on assignments, projects, and examinations are instead burdened with anxiety about their safety. The constant awareness that violence could erupt at any moment creates a climate of tension that makes meaningful academic engagement difficult. For students from outside Plateau State, the situation is even more distressing, as they may feel isolated and unsure about how to return home safely if conditions worsen.
“The seriousness of the situation became more evident when University of Jos directed students to evacuate their hostels due to safety concerns. The decision triggered panic across the student community, as many were forced to make urgent arrangements to leave campus or find safer alternatives. What should have been a place of stability suddenly felt uncertain, with students scrambling to protect themselves amid the unfolding crisis,” she said.
Abdurrahman Adeleke, a 300-Level student of Agricultural and Bio-Resources Engineering at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), expressed deep concern over the situation. Reflecting on the events, he explained how unsettling it is to see students displaced in such a manner. “It is really sad that students now have to leave their hostels and put their education on hold because of insecurity,” he said. “A place that is supposed to be safe for learning is now filled with fear, and that should not be normal in any society.”
Such developments highlight not only the disruption caused by insecurity but also the emotional impact on students across the country. Even those far from Jos feel a sense of unease, knowing that similar situations could arise elsewhere. The crisis has, therefore, become a national concern within the student community, reinforcing the need for urgent and lasting solutions.”
Ahmad Olatunbosun, a 200-Level Medical Laboratory Science student at the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), stressed the importance of prioritising security. He argued that education should not be the first casualty when tensions rise.
“The government should prioritise security. This means dedicated security for campuses, ensuring that education is not the first thing to shut down when tension rises.
“Beyond the immediate effects, the situation in Jos exposes a broader weakness within Nigeria’s education system, the vulnerability of universities to external crises. Institutions do not operate in isolation, and when insecurity affects a city, campuses inevitably bear the impact. This raises important questions about preparedness and the extent to which universities can protect their students during periods of unrest,” he said.
Felix Madu, a 200-Level Public Relations student at the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), shared a similar concern. He noted that the uncertainty surrounding the crisis often makes the situation more troubling than the violence itself.
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“Students are supposed to feel safe in school, but now many are living in fear and confusion. It’s not just about the violence, it’s the uncertainty that makes it worse. Seeing states withdraw their students shows that people no longer trust the situation,” he said. He added: “The government needs to do more than just impose curfews. They should focus on solving the root of the problem and also communicate better so people know what is going on.
The role of government in addressing these challenges remains central. While curfews may provide temporary relief, they do not address the underlying issues that fuel recurring conflicts. Sustainable solutions require a combination of stronger security presence, proactive conflict prevention strategies, and meaningful dialogue among affected communities. Without these measures, the cycle of violence is likely to continue, with students bearing a significant portion of the consequences.”
Ajayi further emphasised the need for collaboration between the Plateau State Government, the Federal Government, and educational institutions. She said: “Clear communication, protective measures for students, and flexible academic arrangements are necessary to ensure that students are not academically disadvantaged by circumstances beyond their control.”
Her conclusion is both simple and powerful: “No student should have to choose between education and safety.”
Universities themselves also have a responsibility to respond effectively to such crises. Developing emergency response strategies, maintaining open lines of communication, and providing counselling services are crucial steps in supporting students. In times of uncertainty, access to accurate information can help reduce panic, while psychological support can assist students in coping with trauma,” she added.
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Elizabeth Tijani, a 200-Level Sociology student at the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), highlighted practical measures that students can adopt to stay safe. She said: “Students should prioritise immediate safety by obeying curfews strictly, taking their ID with them, and avoiding night travels.”
She also recommended that lecturers should utilise WhatsApp or Google Classroom for lectures and group work. She encouraged students to “check in daily with family and friends to ensure their safety.” According to her, if matters get worse, the university should go on a strike.
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The situation in Jos also serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence. Many of the conflicts in Plateau State are rooted in longstanding ethnic and religious tensions. Universities, as centres of intellectual development, have a role to play in promoting dialogue, tolerance, and mutual understanding among students from diverse backgrounds. By fostering a culture of peace, institutions can contribute to long-term solutions beyond the classroom.
Despite the challenges, students continue to demonstrate remarkable determination. Their ability to adapt, persevere, and pursue their education in the face of adversity speaks to their strength and commitment. However, their resilience should not be taken for granted. It must be supported by concrete actions from government authorities, educational institutions, and society as a whole.
The crisis in Jos has brought into sharp focus the far-reaching impact of violence on academic life. For students, the consequences extend beyond disrupted lectures and altered schedules to include emotional strain, reduced academic performance, and uncertainty about the future. Until decisive steps are taken to ensure safety and stability, many students will continue to learn under the shadow of fear rather than the promise of opportunity.
