Students of the Benue State University (BSU), Monday, protested the shooting of their leader at the university’s gate.
The President, National Union of Benue State Students (NUBESS),Tyonor Smith, was shot during the weekend by unknown gunmen in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.
Mr. Smith is said to have been attacked opposite the university’s College of Health Science.
He was, however, taken to the University Teaching Hospital for treatment.
But the protesting students, who blocked the three major entrances into the instirution, as early as 6am, condemned the attack.
They also demanded the victim be moved to a better and more secure hospital for mdeical care.
NUBESS’ National Secretary, Akase Simeon, who spoke to journalists said the students resolved that government must ensure the security and safety of students in the state.
Explaining why they insisted Mr. Smith be moved, he argued the facilities at the university teaching hospital were inadequate for his treatment.
The students conducted themselves peacefully during the protest and many carried placards with inscriptions like, “Benue State Teaching Hospital Must be Well Equiped,” “NUBESS President Must Be Treated Abroad,” among others.
The Dean of Student Affairs, Joseph Kerker said the student was shot at the Canopy, a joint opposite the College of Health Science
He said two people came on a bike and asked the students, who were having a meeting “What is subbing.”
As soon as they replied, “Nothing is subbing,” they left and returned shortly before shooting the president.”
Mr. Kerker, however, said the student leader is responding to treatment and assured the protesters the university’s management is taking care of their leader.
He disagreed with the claim that Mr. Smith has an injury to his skill, adding, “the doctor handling the case said it was not so and also assured us that he is doing very fine.”
Mr. Kerker also assured that the student leader has been moved to an undisclosed hospital in Abuja.
While saying the university does not take care of cases outside the campus, Mr. Kerker explained the rule was waived because of the peculiar nature of the case in question.
