At least seven students sustained injuries after suspected armed robbers attacked a female hostel in Ebonyi State, sparking fresh concerns over the security of students living in off-campus accommodations.
The incident, which occurred during the night, reportedly threw residents of the hostel into panic as the assailants invaded the premises, attacking occupants and carting away valuables.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers, believed to be armed, forced their way into the hostel and terrorized students for several minutes. During the assault, several occupants were reportedly injured while attempting to escape or resist the robbers.
The injured students were said to have sustained varying degrees of injuries and were rushed to nearby medical facilities for treatment. Authorities have yet to confirm the exact condition of the victims, but sources indicated that none of the injuries appeared to be life-threatening.
Students living in the hostel recounted the traumatic experience, describing scenes of fear and confusion as residents scrambled for safety. Some victims reportedly lost mobile phones, laptops, cash, and other personal belongings during the attack.
The incident has triggered outrage among students and parents, with many calling on security agencies and school authorities to strengthen security measures around student hostels and residential areas.
Student representatives expressed concern over what they described as recurring security threats faced by students, particularly those residing outside campus premises. They urged relevant authorities to increase surveillance, improve street lighting, and deploy security personnel to vulnerable locations.
Security operatives were said to have visited the scene following reports of the attack and have commenced investigations aimed at identifying and apprehending the perpetrators.
Authorities have also appealed to residents with useful information to assist law enforcement agencies in tracking down those responsible for the attack.
The latest incident has reignited debate over the safety of students in tertiary institutions across the country, especially in off-campus hostels where security arrangements are often inadequate.
Residents and stakeholders have called for urgent collaboration between educational institutions, local communities, and security agencies to prevent future attacks and ensure a safer learning environment for students.
As investigations continue, students affected by the incident are hoping that those behind the attack will be brought to justice and that stronger measures will be implemented to safeguard hostels from similar security breaches.
