The Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi has been shut down indefinitely following a violent protest by students triggered by a midnight armed robbery at one of the male hostels on campus.
The school’s Registrar, Alhaji Kasimu Salihu, confirmed the closure in an official statement made available to journalists in Bauchi. According to the statement, unidentified assailants invaded the male hostel, stole valuables, and injured at least two students during the attack.
“Some unscrupulous elements invaded the male students’ hostel, stealing belongings and injuring two students,” the statement read.
What began as a peaceful protest by students at the institution’s main gate quickly escalated after external elements hijacked the demonstration, turning it violent. Reports indicate widespread unrest, including looting and harassment of bystanders, prompting school authorities to take immediate action.
The management ordered an immediate suspension of academic activities and gave all students two hours to vacate the campus.
Students React to Robbery and Security Concerns
Several students who spoke anonymously expressed anger over the institution’s alleged failure to provide adequate security.
“It’s disturbing that students are not safe—whether on or off campus,” said Ismail Abubakar, a student at the polytechnic. “The robbers stole over 50 phones and injured students with dangerous weapons.”
President of the Student Union Government, Haruna Umar, described the attack as “unprecedented in the polytechnic’s history.”
Police Respond Swiftly, Arrest Suspects
The Bauchi State Police Command confirmed the arrest of three suspects in connection with the robbery. According to Police Public Relations Officer CSP Ahmed Wakili, the suspects have confessed to conspiring to invade the hostel and forcibly taking students’ phones and laptops.
Police units responded swiftly after receiving a report from the institution’s Chief Security Officer, administering first aid to injured students at the school’s clinic.
As the protest spiraled into chaos, additional security personnel were deployed. Wakili noted that minimal force was used to disperse the crowd after resistance, ultimately restoring calm.
In total, 48 individuals—36 males and 12 females—were taken into custody over their alleged involvement in the unrest.
Uncertain Future for Students
With the school now closed indefinitely, the institution’s academic calendar remains in limbo, and students await further directives from the administration.
