The administration of Hyacinth Alia has begun the evacuation of Benue State students from the University of Jos following a recent deadly attack in Angwan Rukuba and nearby communities that has heightened insecurity in the area.
The development was confirmed in a statement released on Friday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula.
Earlier, the university had postponed its first semester examinations and directed students to vacate hostels and surrounding residences starting Thursday, April 2, 2026, due to the worsening security situation.
Governor Alia ordered the immediate evacuation, emphasizing that the safety and well-being of Benue indigenes studying outside the state remain a top priority for his administration.
“This decision became necessary as it concerns the lives and welfare of our people, especially the future leaders studying outside the state,” the governor said.
According to the state government, more than 600 students have already been safely transported back to Benue, while additional buses have been deployed to evacuate others who wish to return amid ongoing tensions in Jos.
Alia also reassured residents of his commitment to their protection, noting that he is in close communication with Caleb Mutfwang to address the crisis, restore peace, and ensure that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice.
“We are working tirelessly with relevant authorities to ensure the perpetrators are brought to book and that normalcy is restored as soon as possible,” he added.
