The Federal University Lokoja (FUL) in Kogi State has announced the immediate reopening of the institution weeks after it was shut down due to the tragic deaths of students in a fatal road accident.
Decision to reopen the institution was reached after extensive consultations to address safety concerns following the accident that resulted in the breakdown of law and order within the institution.
After the meeting, the senate mandated students to resume on campus starting Tuesday, March 11, 2025, while lectures will officially begin on Monday, March 17, 2025.
A statement released by the university management explained that that steps were being taken to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The decision to reopen the institution was approved during an emergency Senate meeting held on Monday, March 10, 2025.
The Guild had reported that the institution was initially closed indefinitely after a tragic accident in February 2025, where a truck carrying wood and jerrycans of palm oil lost control and crashed into a university shuttle bus near the school’s permanent site.
The crash claimed the lives of seven students and a bus driver.
Eyewitnesses described the harrowing scene, stating that the bus, filled with students and preparing to leave, was completely crushed upon impact.
The accident triggered widespread protests, with students demanding justice for the victims and urging authorities to enforce road safety measures.
In response to the unrest, the university management, in consultation with the Vice-Chancellor and security agencies, ordered an immediate shutdown on February 20, 2025.
The directive, issued by the registrar, Rebecca Aimiohu, cited security concerns after students blocked the university gates despite interventions from the state government and appeals for calm.
As normalcy gradually returns, the university has reassured students and staff that measures are being implemented to enhance safety and prevent future incidents.
