The University of Jos has rescheduled examinations earlier planned for Monday and Tuesday following fresh security concerns in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The decision comes after a deadly attack on Angwan Rukuba community on Sunday night, which left several people dead and many others injured, creating fear and tension in the area.
The announcement was made in a statement issued on Monday by the Deputy Registrar, Information and Public Relations of the university, Emmanuel Madugu.
According to the statement, the Vice-Chancellor approved the postponement of the examinations as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students and staff.
“The Vice-Chancellor has directed that all examinations scheduled to hold on Monday and Tuesday will be rescheduled,” Madugu said.
He explained that the decision was taken in response to the security situation in and around Angwan Rukuba, where the attack occurred.
“This is in view of the Sunday night attack by gunmen on residents of Angwan Rukuba and the tension it has generated,” he added.
The university also advised students and staff to remain alert and take safety precautions.
Madugu urged members of the university community to avoid unnecessary movement, especially in areas affected by the violence.
He further called on students to report any suspicious activity or security threats to the university’s security unit.
The management said it would continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on when the postponed examinations would be conducted.
The decision by the university followed a violent attack on Angwan Rukuba, a community located in Jos North and close to areas where many students of the university live.
Reports indicate that heavily armed gunmen stormed the area on Sunday night, firing shots and causing panic among residents.
The incident led to the loss of lives and injuries, although the exact number of casualties is still being confirmed by authorities.
The attack has disrupted normal activities in the area, with many residents living in fear.
In response to the violence, the Plateau State Government announced a 48-hour curfew in Jos North Local Government Area.
The curfew is aimed at restoring order and preventing further attacks.
Security agencies have also been deployed to maintain peace and protect lives and property.
Officials say the curfew will help control movement and allow security forces to carry out investigations and operations more effectively.
The postponement of examinations has affected many students who were preparing to sit for their papers.
For some, the decision came as a relief, as concerns about safety had already begun to grow after news of the attack spread.
Others, however, expressed worry about the uncertainty surrounding the new exam dates.
University authorities have assured students that new dates will be announced once the situation improves.
Plateau State has experienced repeated cases of violence over the years, especially in communities around Jos.
These incidents are often linked to disputes over land, ethnic differences and other local tensions.
Despite efforts by the government and security agencies, attacks have continued to occur, raising concerns among residents and observers.
For institutions like the University of Jos, such security challenges have a direct impact on academic activities and student welfare.
Many students of the University of Jos live off-campus in nearby communities, including areas close to Angwan Rukuba.
The recent attack has raised concerns about their safety, with some students considering relocating to safer areas.
Parents and guardians have also expressed worry about the security of their children.
University authorities have encouraged students to stay in safe locations and follow all security guidelines.
The latest development has renewed calls for long-term solutions to the security challenges in Plateau State.
Community leaders and residents have urged the government to take stronger measures to prevent future attacks.
They also stress the importance of addressing the root causes of the conflict to achieve lasting peace.
For now, the focus remains on restoring calm in Jos North and ensuring the safety of residents.
The University of Jos has said it will continue to monitor the situation closely before announcing new examination dates.
Students and staff are expected to comply with the curfew and other security measures put in place by authorities.
While the postponement of exams may disrupt academic plans, many agree that safety must come first.