by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The recent protest by the students of the University of Jos, leading to the closure of entrances into the University and disruption of activities on campus, had involved a “victim of circumstance” – a female student, Miss Nankling Samuel, who was in the process admitted to the clinic. Her health crisis was, however, ‘diagnosed’ to be related to Sickle Cell Anemia.
Our correspondent gathered that, students at the University of Jos took to the streets on Monday in a protest that saw the blockade of the University’s permanent site gate to demonstrate, which was led by students from the Dental Department, centered on grievances related to the alleged “lack of accreditation for their course.” Additionally, protesters voiced concerns over the perceived negligence surrounding the death of a fellow student.
On this development, a statement was signed by Abdullahi Abdullahi, who is Senior Deputy Registrar Information & Publications, and issued to our correspondent in Jos.
Despite best efforts of the medical team at the Centre to save her, Miss Nankling’s condition did not improve, prompting a referral to the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), where she later tragically passed away.
The statement averred that, “The University Management wishes to express its deepest condolences to the family of Miss Nankling Samuel, a 300-level Student of the Department of Political Science, and considers the loss of such a promising Student as a profound tragedy.
“Also, the attention of Management of the University of Jos has been drawn to recent events surrounding misleading reports being circulated, particularly on Social Media platforms suggesting that the recent unfortunate demise of a Student of the University was due to negligence and certain deficiencies associated with her treatment in the University Clinic.
“The Management wishes to state categorically that, no Student or Staff of the University has passed away in the University’s Health Centre within the past year but that a specific incident involving a female Student, Miss Nankling Samuel, who was admitted to the Clinic, was due to a health crisis related to Sickle Cell Anemia.
“Despite the best efforts of the Medical team at the Centre, Miss Nankling’s condition did not improve, prompting a referral to the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), where she later tragically passed away.
“Meanwhile, the Management has since directed the Students Affairs Directorate to reach out to the family to convey the University’s sympathies and offer them support during this difficult time preparatory to a formal condolence visit by members of Management.
“In light of recent protests by Students that led to the closure of entrances into the University and disrupted activities on campus, the University Administration has engaged with representatives of the Student body to address their concerns and grievances, believing that through open dialogue and constructive engagement, all issues affecting the Students will be resolved amicably.”
According to the statement, “Following the discussions with the Student representatives, it was agreed that the University Administration will take immediate steps to address pressing issues such as the provision of water and the renovation of essential utilities within the campus.
“While additionally, matters that require more time for resolution will be handled through established procedures and channels, as the University remains committed to the well-being and welfare of all its Students and Staff.
“The Management also reassures members of the public that the University remains open and fully functional for all Academic and Administrative activities.
“Students of the University are strongly advised to exercise caution and avoid being swayed by mischief-makers seeking to sow discord within the University community, which they can always obtain accurate information about the University from official University communication channels or their designated representatives.”