With the appearance of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Nigeria police on the campus of the Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, the institution authorities have decided to send the students home for the meantime.In a statement today, Thursday, the deputy vice-chancellor (Academics) of the university, Professor Sakah Mahmud, said: “I want to re-emphasize that this measure is to ensure the security of our great campus. I am in touch with the Pro-Chancellor and Council Chairman, and he indicates total support that closing the campus at this time is desirable.”
According to Professor Saka Mahmud, the action was taken following ultimatum by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) on Wednesday to the state government on the appointment of an acting vice chancellor for the university, condemning the directive given to the vice-chancellor, Professor Abdulrasheed Na’Allah, to proceed on terminal leave before expiration of his tenure in July 2019.
Part of the statement reads: “Because of recent developments in our state and in the University and our students’ reactions to the Government’s appointment of an Acting Vice Chancellor in which the students gave a 24 hour ultimatum to government, the University Management (and three University Members of the Governing Council) met yesterday, Wednesday, 8 May, 2019 and decided to temporarily close the university until further notice as a preventive measure against any possible disturbances.
“Thank God that exams have been completed and gradings are still ongoing, with some lecturers already uploading their grades.
“Staff and students should leave the University quietly and ensure the safety of property and life.
“Reports reaching me indicates that a contingence of police (in vehicles belonging to KWIRS) were being driven towards the campus and it took some intervention to get them to return to Ilorin.
“KWASU does not want any situation in which the ongoing temporary crisis which would be safely and easily resolved by the grace of God lead into the loss of any life.
“Please take your luggage and other personal properties and go home safely until further notice. Please, this decision goes into effect immediately.
“The Office of Campus Safety is hereby notified and to please monitor everywhere to ensure peace and safety on campus.”
