Staff and students at Dennis Osadebey University are in a state of alarm following a disturbing increase in armed robberies that have been plaguing the campus. Reports indicate that residences and hostels have become prime targets for criminals, leaving the university community feeling vulnerable and unsafe.
Victims of these robberies include notable staff members such as Mr. Earnest from the Faculty of Management, Mr. Nduka from Works and Services, and Mrs. Nwane from the Library Department. The situation has escalated to the point where even the Anglican Church on campus has been repeatedly targeted, with thieves making off with valuable items like generating sets, laptops, and cash.
Students have also fallen victim to these brazen attacks, losing phones and cash in the process. A source from the university expressed frustration over the perceived inadequacies of the security arrangements, particularly criticizing the security company "Cooperate Vigil." According to the source, their personnel appear more focused on resting than patrolling, leading to an atmosphere of fear among residents.
The source lamented, “The lives of staff and students are not safe in a government quarter that was supposed to be the safest place.” Despite the state government’s allocation of security funds to the university, there is a growing sense of skepticism regarding how these resources are being utilized.
In response to the deteriorating security situation, staff members have taken matters into their own hands by forming vigilante groups to safeguard their residences. This self-help initiative underscores the urgent need for a more robust security presence on campus.
During a recent meeting among campus residents, Mr. Stephen Jagboma, the Deputy Chief Security Officer (DCSO), announced plans to deploy a police patrol team on campus between 9:00 PM and 5:00 AM. However, many are skeptical about the effectiveness of these measures, given the historical inadequacies of campus security.
A communiqué is set to be sent to university management, emphasizing the urgent need to enhance security measures. The communiqué will include a seven-day deadline for management to respond, with copies forwarded to various authorities, including the Commissioner of Police and the Commissioner for Higher Education.
Residents are also advocating for the establishment of a permanent armed vigilante group to monitor critical areas around the campus and raid illegal camps that serve as hideouts for criminals. They are calling for a special campus security outfit to be registered and empowered to carry arms for the protection of students and staff.
In addition to these requests, campus residents have suggested improvements in security personnel shifts and accommodations to facilitate better coverage. They have also urged the need for increased outdoor lighting at night and the purchase of whistles for emergency situations.
As the university community grapples with these security challenges, attempts to reach the management for comment have proven unsuccessful, leaving many to wonder when effective solutions will finally be implemented.
