Federal University Lokoja (FUL) Shut Down Indefinitely Following Student Protests

The management of Federal University Lokoja (FUL) just announced the indefinite closure of the institution due to the continuous student protests over a tragic accident that claimed the lives of their colleagues.

The circular was released on Thursday by Dr. Rebecca Aimiohu Okojie, the Registrar, and Secretary to the University Council. The circular was copied to the Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Command and the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Kogi State.

The protest was sparked by a fatal accident that occurred on Monday, 17th February 2025 in Felele area of Lokoja. A trailer lost control and crashed into a university shuttle bus and seven people which included five students and the shuttle bus driver died on the spot. Several others were injured and were rushed to nearby hospitals for medical attention.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as horrible, students and bystanders were in shock over the loss of young lives. In reaction, students took to the streets and barricaded the university gate demanding justice for their fallen colleague and improved safety measures for student transportation.

Despite the intervention of Kogi State Government and repeated appeal by the university management for students to remain calm, the protest persisted. Concerned about the situation, the university authorities sought the advice of state security agencies.

The circular announcing the closure reads:

“Following the unfortunate loss of five students to a trailer accident at Felele city centre on Monday, 17 February, 2025, students have barricaded the university gate despite the State Government’s magnanimous intervention as well as the University Management’s frantic efforts and appeal for calm.”

Citing security and to forestall further chaos, the university management after consulting the Senate decided to shut down both campuses indefinitely.

The statement continued:

“Accordingly, arising from the advice of the State Security Agencies and to forestall further loss of lives, the Vice-Chancellor after due consultation with Management has decided on behalf of the Senate that the University (both campuses) be closed down indefinitely within one hour of this circular.

Students are therefore to vacate the campuses on/or before 12 noon today, Thursday, 20th February, 2025. Please take note for strict compliance.”

The closure has put students and parents in a state of panic, many are calling on government to intervene now. Some students who spoke anonymously are frustrated with the recurrent road accidents involving trailers in Lokoja and are asking the authorities to enforce traffic rules and improve road safety.

Parents are also worried about academic activities and are asking the management to involve relevant stakeholders to find a quick solution.