The Management of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba have reinforced the institution’s security architecture with the deployment of two operational vehicles to support anti-cultism operations and enhance safety within the university and its host community.
Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Salisu Ogbo, announced the initiative during an Expanded Security Stakeholders’ Meeting held at the University Council Chamber.
The meeting had in attendance members of the university community, security agencies, traditional rulers and other stakeholders to review strategies for improving security in and around the campus.
According to a statement by the University’s Public Relations Officer, Uredo Omale, the Vice-Chancellor reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to providing a peaceful, safe and conducive environment for teaching, learning and research through sustained collaboration with security agencies, traditional institutions and other relevant stakeholders.
Professor Ogbo said the two operational vehicles were procured as part of deliberate efforts to combat cultism and other criminal activities within the university community. M
He explained that one vehicle has been assigned to the Joint Security and Anti-Cultism Squad, while the second will support routine security patrols across the campus and its environs.
He also disclosed that the University Management Committee, at its 403rd meeting, approved the reconstitution of the Students’ Disciplinary Committee and the Examination Misconduct Committee to enhance discipline and ensure strict enforcement of the institution’s rules and regulations.
In addition, the Vice-Chancellor announced the establishment of a Committee on Behavioural Change and Cult Renunciation to identify, counsel and rehabilitate students involved in anti-social activities.
He said the initiative would provide an opportunity for affected students to renounce unlawful associations and embrace responsible conduct, warning that anyone who refused to abandon criminal activities would face the full weight of the law.
Professor Ogbo dismissed a viral social media video alleging cult-related activities at the university, describing it as false, misleading and malicious.
He clarified that the incident neither occurred within the university nor in Kogi State, urging the public to disregard the report.
He reassured students, parents and guardians of the university’s unwavering commitment to the safety of lives and property, pledging continued collaboration with security agencies to eliminate all forms of criminality.
The Vice-Chancellor expressed appreciation to the Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his continued support towards strengthening the university’s security framework.
He also acknowledged the mentorship and support of the immediate past governor, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, which he said had contributed significantly to the institution’s peaceful academic environment.
In separate remarks, the Ogohi Onu-Anyigba, HRH Alhaji Shaibu Okolo, and the Chairman of Dekina Local Government Area, Hon. John Urah, commended the university management for its proactive security measures and pledged their continued support in sustaining peace and safety within the university community.
The meeting was attended by heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, representatives of the host community and other stakeholders, who all reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the university’s efforts to guarantee a secure environment for teaching, learning and research.
