‎By Boluwaji Obahopo

‎‎Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, Kogi State has intensified its crackdown on cultism and other criminal activities with the deployment of two branded operational vehicles to security agencies as part of a comprehensive strategy to strengthen security within the institution and its host communities.

‎‎The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, announced the initiative on Tuesday during an expanded security stakeholders’ meeting held at the University’s Council Chamber, where security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders and university officials reviewed measures aimed at sustaining peace on campus.

‎‎Prof. Usman said one of the newly acquired vehicles would be dedicated to the Joint Security and Anti-Cultism Squad, while the second would support routine security patrols across the university and neighbouring communities.

‎‎According to him, the intervention forms part of the institution’s renewed determination to eradicate cult-related activities, violence and other social vices capable of disrupting academic activities.

‎‎”The safety of our students, staff and host community remains a top priority. We will continue to work closely with security agencies and other stakeholders to ensure that the university remains safe and conducive for teaching, learning and research,” he said.

‎‎The Vice Chancellor also announced a series of disciplinary reforms approved by the University’s Management Committee at its 403rd meeting to reinforce order and accountability.

‎‎The measures include the reconstitution of the Students’ Disciplinary Committee and the Examination Misconduct Committee to ensure stricter enforcement of institutional regulations.

‎‎In addition, the university has established a Committee on Behavioural Change and Cult Renunciation to identify, counsel and rehabilitate students involved in anti-social activities.

‎‎”The committee will provide an opportunity for students willing to renounce cultism and other unlawful associations. Those who refuse to abandon criminal activities will face the full weight of the law.”

‎‎The Vice-Chancellor also dismissed as false and misleading a viral social media video alleging cult-related violence within the university.

‎‎He clarified that the incident neither occurred at Prince Abubakar Audu University nor anywhere in Kogi State, describing the circulation of the video as a deliberate attempt to create panic and tarnish the institution’s reputation.

‎‎He reassured parents, students and guardians that the university remains secure and committed to protecting lives and property through sustained collaboration with security agencies.

‎‎Prof. Usman expressed appreciation to the Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, for supporting efforts to strengthen the university’s security architecture. He also acknowledged the contributions of former governor Yahaya Adoza Bello, whose support, he said, helped foster a peaceful academic environment.

‎‎In separate remarks, the Ogohi Onu-Anyigba, Alhaji Shaibu Okolo, and the Chairman of Dekina Local Government Area, Hon. John Urah Ikani, commended the university management for adopting proactive security measures and pledged continued collaboration to safeguard the institution and its host communities.