Kogi Varsity closed indefinitely following student protests

The Federal University, Lokoja, Kogi State, has been closed indefinitely to prevent further unrest and potential harm, following the tragic death of five students in a recent accident.

This decision was announced in a statement signed by the institution’s Registrar and Secretary to Council, Dr. Rebecca Aimiohu Okojie, on Thursday.

The statement, made available to journalists in Lokoja, cited security concerns as the primary reason for the shutdown.

According to the university’s management, students had blocked the main entrance of the campus since the incident on Monday, hindering access and disrupting normal activities.

“The closure followed the unfortunate loss of lives of five students to a tragic trailer accident at Felele, on Monday 17th February, 2025.

“Since the incident, students have barricaded the gates of the university despite magnanimous intervention from the state government as well as frantic efforts and appeal by the university management for calm.

“Accordingly, arising from the advice of the state security agencies and to forestall further loss of lives and prosperity, the vice chancellor after due consultation with the management has decided on behalf of the Senate that the university, both campuses be closed down indefinitely.

“Students are to vacate campuses on or before 12 noon on Thursday, February 20.”

Recall that the students of the institution on Wednesday, led by their union president, Comrade Benjamin Olorunfemi Timothy, threatened to block the highway at the campus side during the day period to stem accidents in the area.