Beatrice Gondyi Bauchi
The President of the National Union of Bauchi State Students (NUBASS), University of Jos Chapter, Comrade James Timothy, has commended the Bauchi State Government for its prompt evacuation of students following the recent violence in Anguwan Rukuba that left several people dead.
Speaking at the Government House in Bauchi shortly after their safe arrival in the early hours of Friday, Timothy described the intervention as timely and life-saving.
The student leader, who studies Plant Science and Biotechnology, said the government’s swift response helped ease fears and prevented further trauma among Bauchi students affected by the unrest.
He specifically appreciated Governor Bala Mohammed and the Commissioner for Higher Education and Regional Integration, Hadiza Abdulkadir Kango, for acting quickly once the situation was brought to their attention.
According to him, the crisis was escalated through NUBASS National President, Mohammed Suleiman Abdulwahab, prompting immediate action from state authorities.
Timothy noted that the intervention marked a significant shift from past experiences, recalling that during a similar crisis in 2021, students did not receive such support.
He added that the latest rescue effort has renewed confidence among Bauchi indigenes studying at the University of Jos, encouraging more students to seek admission without fear.
“Many students were previously discouraged due to insecurity, but this response has reassured us that the government stands firmly behind us,” he said.
He also urged students to remain engaged in NUBASS activities and take advantage of scholarship opportunities provided by the state government.
Earlier, the Commissioner, Hadiza Abdulkadir Kango, confirmed that 64 students were successfully evacuated and transported safely to Bauchi.
She explained that the operation followed a distress alert indicating that students were trapped in their hostels amid the unrest.
“Immediately we received the report, the government mobilised resources. Security agencies were engaged, and transportation was arranged to ensure their safe evacuation,” she said.
Kango described the exercise as a demonstration of Governor Bala Mohammed’s commitment to protecting Bauchi citizens, particularly students studying outside the state.
She also praised the students for remaining calm and disciplined throughout the crisis, urging them to stay focused on their academic pursuits.
The NUBASS leadership further acknowledged the role of government officials, the Ministry of Higher Education, and security agencies in ensuring the success of the operation.
The evacuation comes as authorities intensify efforts to restore peace in affected areas of Jos following the recent violence.
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