Academic activities at Western Delta University, Oghara, in Delta State, were momentarily disrupted on Thursday due to an invasion by suspected armed robbers. The intruders reportedly gained access through an unfenced perimeter at the rear of the campus, aiming to rob students.
Upon sensing danger, students quickly raised the alarm and sought safety in nearby areas. The timely intervention of law enforcement agents prevented any casualties or significant disruption to the university’s operations. The invaders fled in different directions upon spotting the security operatives.
Delta State Command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the incident. “They (the suspected robbers) entered through the broken fence at the back of the school, but the police responded swiftly and they fled,” Edafe stated.
Simeon Okpoko, a student leader at the university, commented on the incident, noting, “This underscores the ongoing security challenges facing educational institutions and highlights the importance of vigilant security measures to safeguard students and staff alike.”
The incident has brought to light the urgent need for enhanced security protocols at the university. In response to the invasion, the university administration has committed to increasing security measures, including repairing the broken fence and increasing patrols around the campus perimeter. They have also called for heightened vigilance among students and staff.
University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Augustine Ikelegbe, addressed the situation in a statement, emphasizing the institution’s dedication to ensuring the safety and security of its academic community. “We are deeply concerned about the security breach and are taking immediate steps to prevent such incidents in the future. The safety of our students and staff is our top priority,” he said.
The university’s management is also collaborating with local law enforcement to establish a more robust security presence on campus. Plans include the installation of surveillance cameras and the implementation of regular security drills to prepare students and staff for potential emergencies.
In the wake of the incident, students have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to university authorities or the police. The incident has also sparked discussions about the broader issue of security in educational institutions across Nigeria, with calls for increased government support and resources to protect students and staff.
