Federal Polytechnic Bauchi has been indefinitely closed following violent protests by students triggered by an armed robbery attack on the institution’s male hostel.
The closure, announced by the polytechnic’s management on Tuesday, came after demonstrations escalated, with hoodlums reportedly infiltrating the protests, leading to chaos and disruption.
The protests erupted early Tuesday morning after armed robbers attacked the male students’ hostel in the Gwallameji area around 3:39 a.m. on Monday.
The assailants, armed with machetes and firearms, stole valuables including smartphones, laptops, and other personal items, injuring at least two students in the process.
Some of the injured were rushed to Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) for treatment.
The robbers also targeted the polytechnic’s Information Communication Technology (ICT) center and the Mass Communication department, heightening fears about campus security.
Angered by the incident, students blocked the Bauchi-Dass federal highway near the polytechnic’s main gate, burning tires and disrupting traffic to demand better security measures.
What began as a peaceful demonstration turned violent when suspected hoodlums joined the protesters, leading to clashes with security forces.
The Bauchi State Police Command deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd, prompting some students to retaliate by throwing stones.
Unconfirmed reports suggest a student may have been shot during the unrest, though the police is yet to verify this claim and have promised a detailed statement after investigations.
The Students’ Union Government (SUG) President, Haruna Umar, condemned the robbery, describing it as an unprecedented breach of security at the institution.
“This is the first time we’ve experienced something like this here. Students are angry and want the management and government to address this insecurity,” Umar said.
Students have demanded increased security patrols, better campus lighting, and a comprehensive safety plan to protect the polytechnic community.
In response, the polytechnic’s Registrar, Alhaji Kasimu Salihu, announced the immediate closure of the institution to prevent further escalation.
“The protest was hijacked by unscrupulous elements, leading to a breakdown of law and order,” the statement read.
Students were given two hours to vacate the campus, and academic activities remain suspended until further notice.
The institution’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Rabiu Wadda, described the situation as a “crisis,” noting that efforts to contain the unrest began as early as 4:00 a.m.
“Some students are receiving treatment, but we are still assessing the full extent of the incident,” Wadda said.
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