The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Joint Campus Council, Lagos State, has called on President Bola Tinubu to establish a presidential panel of inquiry into the killing of a University of Jos student, Abel Gershon.
Gershon, a 300-level Building student of the University of Jos, died after sustaining injuries during a Palm Sunday attack on Angwan Rukuba in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State.
In a statement signed by its chairman, Ridwan Ajayi, NANS described the incident as a reflection of Nigeria’s worsening security situation and demanded urgent government action. The group said the proposed panel should identify those responsible, ensure their prosecution, and recommend measures to prevent future attacks.
The attack, which occurred on March 29, 2026, involved gunmen who reportedly stormed the community on motorcycles and opened fire on residents at a popular gathering spot. Gershon was initially reported to have survived but later died at the Intensive Care Unit of the Jos University Teaching Hospital.
The university confirmed that Gershon and another student, Patrick Ishaya, along with a staff member, survived the initial assault, although Gershon later succumbed to his injuries. The death toll from the incident has since risen to 33, with several victims dying while receiving treatment.
NANS stressed its commitment to seeking justice, stating that the killing should not be treated as an isolated tragedy but as part of a broader pattern of insecurity affecting students nationwide. The group also criticised what it described as persistent failures in security systems, insisting that students must be safe within their campuses and host communities.
The student body commended Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for facilitating the evacuation of Lagos students from the affected area, describing the move as a timely and responsible intervention.
Meanwhile, the Plateau State Government, represented by Chief of Staff Jeremiah Satmark on behalf of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, has pledged to ensure that those behind the attack are brought to justice.
Similarly, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, condemned the killings and assured that security agencies are working to apprehend the perpetrators. He noted that the Deputy Inspector-General in charge of Operations, Umar Nadada, has been deployed to coordinate response efforts in the state.
NANS extended condolences to the victim’s family and the university community, insisting that justice must be served and stronger measures taken to protect students across the country.
