Herders Take Over Benue University, Abduct Students – VC Cries Out

Major security issues at Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi (JOSTUM), such as herdsmen incursions, kidnappings, and the widespread theft of school equipment, especially armored cables, have drawn the attention of Prof. Isaac Itodo, vice-chancellor.

During a news conference held in advance of the university’s 26th-31st simultaneous convocation ceremony, which is set for March 27–29, 2025, Itodo emphasized the increasing animosity from the host community, claiming that this has had a detrimental effect on the institution.

He promised that measures, such as building a perimeter fence to improve security, are being taken to solve the problems.
The university was closed indefinitely after the VC brought attention to the recent kidnapping of three female students. Before reopening the school, he clarified, security professionals had carried out a comprehensive examination and found further security flaws that needed to be fixed.

The construction of a separate Security Department building is one of the measures we are putting into place, and it should be finished in a few weeks. When classes resume, this will guarantee the security of both employees and students,” he said.

The vice-chancellor underlined the school’s dedication to collaborating with the host community, security forces, and the Benue State Government in order to promote scientific research and preserve campus calm.

He also restated his commitment to openness and responsible resource use.

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Over 9,000 students who were previously disqualified for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program will graduate at the next convocation event, including those from the university’s sandwich program.

Important infrastructure projects including a teaching and research farm, a specialized plant health laboratory, and the recently built security department building will also be put into service during this event.

In his plea to the federal government, Itodo emphasized that building a perimeter fence around the university would protect students and faculty while also advancing research and commercial agriculture on campus.