In a recent and tragic development, the Federal University Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA) in Katsina State has been thrust into turmoil following the alleged shooting of a 400-level student, Sa’id Abdulkadir, by members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF). The incident has ignited widespread protests among the student body, leading to significant disruptions and raising serious concerns about campus security and the conduct of local vigilante groups.
The unfortunate event occurred on Sunday, February 23, 2025, when Abdulkadir, a student in the Department of Agricultural Extension, was reportedly shot by CJTF operatives during a stop-and-search operation. According to eyewitness accounts, Abdulkadir was traveling on a commercial motorcycle with rider Abubakar Yusuf when they were intercepted by four CJTF members. The situation escalated rapidly, resulting in Abdulkadir sustaining fatal gunshot wounds, while Yusuf was injured and subsequently hospitalized.
In response to the incident, a large number of FUDMA students took to the streets of Dutsin-Ma to express their outrage and demand justice for their fallen colleague. The protests, which began on Sunday and continued into Monday, saw students blocking major highways, setting tires ablaze, and chanting slogans condemning the actions of the CJTF. The demonstrations caused significant disruptions to traffic and daily activities in the area, reflecting the depth of the students’ grievances and their call for accountability.
In an effort to de-escalate the situation and restore order, the management of FUDMA announced a one-week mid-semester break, effective from Monday, February 24, 2025. Vice-Chancellor Professor Armaya’u Bichi conveyed the decision, urging all students to vacate the campus premises by 6:00 p.m. on the same day. This measure aims to provide a cooling-off period, allowing tensions to subside while authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.
The incident has prompted a broader discussion about the role and conduct of local vigilante groups, such as the CJTF, in maintaining security. While these groups are often instrumental in assisting formal security agencies, concerns have been raised about their training, oversight, and the potential for excessive use of force. The Katsina State Police Command has reportedly initiated an investigation into the shooting, aiming to uncover the facts and ensure that justice is served.
As the university community and the affected families mourn the loss of Sa’id Abdulkadir, there is a collective call for a thorough and transparent investigation. Ensuring accountability and implementing measures to prevent such incidents in the future are paramount to restoring trust and ensuring the safety and well-being of students and residents in the region.
