Students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), Ondo State, have taken to the streets in protest following the murder of a female colleague, barely three weeks after two other students were abducted and killed.
The Students’ Union has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to security agencies and the state government to address what they described as a disturbing trend of targeted violence within the university’s host community.
The latest victim, a female student whose identity had not been disclosed as of press time, was reportedly killed by her boyfriend, said to be an indigene of the host community. According to campus sources, her decomposing body was discovered after neighbours perceived a foul smell and forced open the suspect’s door. The suspect is currently on the run, while his mother has been arrested by authorities in connection with the case.
The incident triggered protests across campus, with students demanding swift and decisive action. Carrying placards with messages such as “We are here to study, not to die” and “Stop killing AAUA students,” they expressed anger over what they see as repeated violence against students.
In a statement signed by its President, Salami Akeem, popularly known as Ologbon, the Students’ Union condemned the murder and issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the Nigeria Police Force and the Ondo State Government to bring the suspect to justice and ensure student safety.
“We received the initial shocking news of two students who were abducted and murdered. We were assured that efforts were being made by the police and community leaders to prevent a recurrence. Unfortunately, we are now mourning another student, reportedly stabbed to death by her boyfriend, who is also a member of the host community,” the statement read.
The union described the repeated incidents as unacceptable and warned that students would be compelled to take further action if their safety could not be guaranteed.
“If justice is not served within the stipulated time, the Students’ Union will have no choice but to mobilise for a peaceful protest to demand the protection of our members and an end to these senseless killings,” it added.
Security operatives, including personnel of the Nigerian Army and the Police Force, have been deployed to the area to restore order and prevent further unrest.
The latest incident has deepened concerns about student safety in Akungba Akoko, coming after the unresolved killing of two students earlier this month. Authorities have yet to confirm any arrests in that case, though multiple suspects from the local community were reportedly under investigation.
