A 21-year-old student of the Federal University Dutsinma in Katsina state has been reportedly murdered by his colleagues during a misunderstanding.
In a statement on Saturday, Aliyu Abubakar-Sadiq, police spokesperson in Katsina, confirmed the development.
Abubakar-Sadiq said the deceased, identified as Abubakar Nasir-Barda, was a 200-level student of the university.
He said the student had a misunderstanding with eight other colleagues over a romantic relationship issue involving a female student of the university.
Abubakar-Sadiq said the student was killed after the argument intensified, adding that the murder was not as a result of a religious issue as purported.
The police spokesperson said the command has arrested six of the students over the incident.
“On Sept. 28, 2023, a tragic incident occurred at Darawa quarters, Dutsinma local government area, involving eight students of the Federal University Dutsinma,” Abubakar-Sadiq said.
“The incident was the result of a heated altercation between the students over a relationship with a fellow female student, which escalated tragically, leading to the death of one of the students involved.”
He said the command has taken the case seriously and is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the factors that led to the murder of the student.
He added that evidence is currently being gathered, adding that anyone with relevant information could share it with the police to help the investigation.
“Including eyewitness testimonies, with the aim of establishing a comprehensive understanding of the events that transpired while upholding the principles of justice and fairness,” he added.
“The commissioner of police in the state, Aliyu Abubakar-Musa, called on the general public to remain calm.
“He also extended his deepest condolences to the family and friends affected by this tragedy and the management of the University.
“We convey our sympathies and support during this difficult time.”
