Atim Emmanuel, a 23-year-old Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) 300-level student, was taken into custody by Bauchi police officers while in possession of a handgun and cartridge.
According to Gistlover, the ATBU Senate issued an order for the university’s immediate closure in response to a student protest after a suspected armed robber fatally stabbed a 500-level Geology student earlier this month.
Protesting students at the university’s two campuses, Yelwa and Gubi, were stopped from obstructing major roadways and potentially igniting a public disturbance by prompt security action.
In a statement provided to media in Bauchi, SP Ahmed Muhammed Wakil, the spokeswoman for the Bauchi Police Command, confirmed the arrest.
“During interrogation, the suspect confessed that he got the firearm from one Zadog who leased it to him for two academic semesters at the rate of N12,000.
“He further stated that he acquired the firearm for his protection and security from criminals.
“The Commissioner of Police Bauchi State has directed that the suspect be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a discreet investigation to unravel more circumstances behind his motives for acquiring the firearm and to determine whether he has killed anyone with it after which he will be charged to court upon completion of the discreet investigation,” the statement read in parts.
In an effort to prevent their children and wards from being used as cannon fodder in upsetting the relative peace and tranquility enjoyed in the state, parents, guardians, and leaders with varying degrees of authority were urged by Commissioner of Police Auwal Musa to exert influence over their children and wards.
