A 100-level student of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rumuolumeni, Rivers State, was reportedly shot by suspected cultists on Wednesday, just two days after rival groups allegedly clashed on campus. The incident has prompted the university management to suspend all remaining SUG Week activities and direct students to return to lectures on Thursday.
Shooting Incident and Response
The student, whose name has not been disclosed, was reportedly shot on campus and rushed to a hospital for treatment. A source close to the victim told newsmen that doctors were attempting surgery to remove bullet pellets lodged in his body. The source added that the victim's friends were contributing money to fund the procedure.
It remains unclear whether the student was affiliated with any cult group. A video circulating online showed the injured student on a hospital bed, with coursemates later carrying him into the university campus.
Monday Cult Clash and Police Confirmation
The shooting occurred about 48 hours after suspected members of two rival cult groups, identified as the Vikings and Klu Klux Klan, allegedly engaged in a supremacy battle on campus on Monday. That incident caused panic among students and staff, with the Rivers State Police Command confirming the involvement of two suspected cult groups and stating that an investigation was ongoing.
Police spokesperson Blessing Agabe, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, confirmed she had seen the video of the injured student from Wednesday's shooting. She said she would obtain details from the Divisional Police Officer in the area and provide an update, though she had not done so as of Wednesday evening.
University Suspends SUG Week
In response to the latest violence, the university management suspended all remaining SUG Week activities with immediate effect. In a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, Registrar Dr Chinonye Ajie directed students to return to classrooms on Thursday, August 13, for normal academic activities. The statement warned that any student who fails to attend lectures will be held responsible for their actions and strongly cautioned against actions inimical to academic pursuits and peace on campus.
The management urged students to stay away from activities that could threaten peace and security. Details surrounding Wednesday's shooting remain limited, including the identity of the student and the circumstances leading to the attack, as investigations continue.
