The Federal University Lokoja (FUL) has been plunged into crisis following the tragic deaths of seven students and a bus driver in a fatal road accident.
The devastating incident, which occurred on Monday, February 17, 2025, has triggered massive student protests, forcing the university management to declare an indefinite closure and mandate the immediate evacuation of all students.
The accident took place at around 2:30 pm when an articulated truck, loaded with wood and jerrycans of palm oil, lost control and crashed into a school shuttle bus transporting students. Eyewitness accounts paint a grim picture of the collision’s impact.
“The driver of the truck lost control and rammed into the school shuttle bus, which was already filled with students and set to leave. The impact was devastating,” a student told SaharaReporters.
The accident scene was one of horror, with the bus crushed beyond recognition and seven students pronounced dead at the site. The tragedy sent shockwaves through the university community, leading to widespread outrage and demonstrations.
In the days following the accident, students took to the streets, barricading the university gates and demanding immediate action from both school authorities and the government to prevent such tragedies in the future. Despite interventions from the Kogi State Government and university management, tensions continued to rise, prompting the institution to take drastic measures.
In a circular signed by the school registrar, Dr. Rebecca Aimiohu Okojie, and dated February 20, 2025, the university announced its indefinite closure, citing security concerns and the need to prevent further loss of life.
“Following the unfortunate loss of the lives of five students to a tragic trailer accident at Felele city centre on Monday, 17th February, 2025, students have barricaded the gates of the university despite magnanimous interventions 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, the Vice-Chancellor after due consultation with Management has decided on behalf of Senate, that the University (both campuses) be closed down INDEFINITELY within one hour of release of this circular.
“Students are therefore, to vacate the campuses on/or before 12 noon, today, Thursday, 20 February, 2025,” the statement read.
The abrupt shutdown has left students in a state of panic and frustration, with many struggling to secure immediate transportation and accommodation. While the decision is aimed at restoring order, critics argue that it does little to address the core issues that led to the unrest—namely, student safety and the need for better transportation policies.
