The Federal University Lokoja in Kogi State has been shut down indefinitely after a tragic trailer accident claimed the lives of five students on Monday, February 17, 2025.
The students were killed when an articulated vehicle lost control and crushed a shuttle bus they were in at Felele city centre.
The university’s management made the decision to close the school after students barricaded the gates, protesting the incident and demanding improved road safety measures.
Despite interventions from the Kogi State Government and appeals for calm, the students continued their protest, prompting the management to act.
The protesting students had threatened to block the Abuja-Lagos Highway if the Federal Government failed to address the incessant killing of their colleagues by trucks.
Student Union Government President Benjamin Timothy said the students were tired of mourning their colleagues and demanded action from the authorities.
“We have given the authorities 72 hours to address the incessant killings of our fellow students, or we will file out of the streets in huge protest,” Timothy said.
The university’s registrar, Rebecca Okojie, directed students to vacate the campuses on or before noon on Thursday, February 20, 2025.
The Kogi State Government has constituted a committee to investigate the matter, but the students are demanding more urgent action ¹.