FUNNAB Students Launch Night Patrols To Combat Robbery Surge.
Students at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), have taken a bold stand against a wave of robbery attacks plaguing their off-campus communities. Frustrated by repeated assaults, the Student Union Government (SUG) has initiated nightly patrols to protect students and reclaim their neighbourhoods, demonstrating remarkable resilience and unity in the face of adversity.
The decision to launch self-policing efforts follows a series of alarming incidents in areas such as Zoo and Oluwo, where armed robbers targeted off-campus hostels. According to SUG President Olamilekan Michael, the robbers, often wielding guns and cutlasses, have struck multiple times, with two significant attacks reported last week alone. These criminals have stormed hostels, shattered windows, and stolen valuables, including phones and laptops, while intimidating students with gunfire to ensure compliance. The SUG issued a heartfelt statement expressing sorrow for affected students and acknowledging the trauma caused by these recurring crimes, particularly during the current holiday period when fewer students are on campus.
In response, the SUG has rallied courageous students to join a nightly patrol starting at midnight, aimed at safeguarding lives and property. “This is our chance to stand up for each other and take back our spaces,” the union declared in a statement signed by Michael and Public Relations Officer Ayomide Oyekan. The initiative has already garnered support from local police, who have joined the patrols, though Michael noted that the force is understaffed, limiting their effectiveness. Despite this, the students’ proactive approach has been praised as a powerful example of community-driven security.
The robberies have primarily targeted students residing off-campus, including those on industrial training (IT) and the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES). The absence of on-campus accommodation has left many vulnerable, prompting the SUG to urge both the university and the Ogun State government to address the security crisis. A previous incident on 9 July saw robbers invade hostels in the Accord and Isolu areas, further highlighting the urgency of the situation.
The Ogun State Police Command has acknowledged the issue, with officers responding to recent incidents, though the robbers often escape before their arrival. Efforts to contact police spokesperson Omolola Odutola for comment were unsuccessful at the time of reporting. Nevertheless, the students remain undeterred, with their self-policing initiative gaining momentum as a symbol of empowerment and solidarity.
This courageous move by FUNAAB students underscores their determination to create a safer environment for learning and living. While the university is on holiday, the resolve of its students to protect their community shines as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to take collective action against insecurity. As the patrols continue, there is optimism that this student-led effort will pressure authorities to implement lasting solutions, ensuring the safety of all in Abeokuta’s academic community.
