EDITORIAL: SAFETY UNDER SIEGE: A CALL FOR ENHANCED VIGILANCE

As we embark on this new semester, our attention is called anew to the persistent concerns about safety and security on our campus. Incidents of theft and burglary continue to plague our community despite warnings and calls to action in the past. Our previous editorials, “Theft Persists Despite Warning” and “Tackling the Rise of Hostel Thefts: A Call for Action,” thus acted as a clarion call to address the growing vulnerability of students to theft and burglary. However, the sad attack on one Mwantiyi David Haruna, a 300-level veterinary student, further brought to the fore the urgent need for improved security.

The sense of unease and fear that grips our campus is palpable, and it is of essence that we jointly voice these concerns. The most recent incident, which has occurred on January 16, 2025, within Naraguta Hostel, Block A, has left many students feeling unsafe and insecure about personal safety. This incident is a vivid reminder that there are many vulnerabilities within our campus area.

In the light of this, UniJos Echo calls upon the university to re-evaluate its security and implement all other measures necessary to make the campus safe. Improvement of access control along with surveillance systems would ensure no unauthorized entry while suspicious activities would be observed. Visibility and presence of security personnel especially during nighttime hours would add to safety. Furthermore, there is the need to foster a culture of community policing and mutual support where students, faculty, and staff collaborate in the deterrence and response to security incidents. Regular security awareness programs and workshops could be conducted to educate students on safety protocols and emergency response procedures.

We believe that academic excellence and personal growth demand a safe and secure learning environment. The onus of providing it lies squarely upon the university administration. We hope that the administration would take our concern seriously and stride in cooperation with students, faculty, and staff for the betterment of these issues.

We also urge students to be observant and proactive in reporting suspicious activity or security breaches. We can only achieve this by being in it together, thus creating a safer, more supportive community that benefits everyone.

As we go through the challenges of campus life, let us not forget our safety and well-being. We owe it to ourselves, our peers, and our institution to demand a secure and conducive learning environment.

300 Level Editorial 

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