…“people are packing out of this hostel. Gunmen invaded our hostel, injured many students, and stole their belongings.”
EBONYI, NIGERIA- The iNews Times| No fewer than 10 students of the College of Health Science Ngbo in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State are battling for their lives after gunmen stormed a student hostel and unleashed violence in the early hours of Tuesday.
The attackers reportedly shot and macheted several students during the raid, leaving multiple victims with serious injuries. Those affected are currently receiving treatment at two different hospitals within the local government area.
The incident occurred at a students’ hostel within the college premises at about 2:00 a.m., throwing the institution into panic and fear.
Confirming the attack, the spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force, SP Joshua Ukandu, said police operatives responded after receiving a distress call but the assailants had already fled the scene before security personnel arrived.
According to Ukandu, preliminary findings indicate that the gunmen were primarily motivated by robbery, as they assaulted students and made away with several personal belongings, including mobile phones, laptops, power banks, and other valuables.
“That incident occurred at about 2:00 a.m. on Tuesday, and our personnel were alerted. Unfortunately, before we could get there, the hoodlums had escaped,” he said.
“The gunmen essentially came to steal. They beat up the students and carted away their belongings, including phones, laptops, power banks, and other items.”
The police spokesperson revealed that investigations had commenced and that officers were already on the trail of the suspects.
He also pointed to security lapses around the institution, noting that the school lacks adequate perimeter fencing and security personnel.
“From what I gathered, the school is very porous and does not even have proper security guards. Investigation is ongoing, and we are working to uncover the motive behind the attack and apprehend those responsible,” he added.
Meanwhile, frightened students say the incident has triggered a mass departure from the hostel, with many residents relocating out of fear for their safety.
Speaking anonymously, some students described the attack as traumatic, lamenting the growing insecurity affecting educational institutions.
“People are packing out of this hostel. Gunmen invaded our hostel, injured many students, and stole their belongings. Some victims are receiving treatment at the General Hospital while others are in a private hospital,” one student said.
Another added, “Students are leaving because they are scared. We no longer feel safe here.”
The attack has renewed concerns over security in schools and student hostels, with calls mounting for authorities to strengthen protection measures and prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
