The Benue State Government has begun the evacuation of its indigenes studying at the University of Jos, Plateau State, following approval from the institution’s management in the wake of the Palm Sunday attack in Angwan Rukuba, which reportedly claimed about 28 lives.
Reports indicate that no fewer than 600 students were evacuated on Thursday, while arrangements have been made to transport additional students willing to return home over the weekend.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Kula Tersoo, who confirmed that the evacuation exercise commenced on Thursday.
According to the statement, the move was prompted by the recent violence in Angwan Rukuba and surrounding areas, which heightened tension across Jos.
The statement partly read, “Following the recent attack on Angwan Rukuba and surrounding communities, Governor Hyacinth Alia on Thursday, April 2, 2026, initiated the evacuation of Benue students studying at the University of Jos back to the state.”
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It further noted that the exercise was necessary to protect the lives and welfare of the students, describing them as future leaders studying away from home.
“Over 600 students have already been safely evacuated, while additional buses have been dispatched to Jos to convey the remaining students and other Benue indigenes willing to return due to the prevailing security situation,” the statement added.
Governor Alia reassured residents of his administration’s commitment to their safety, emphasizing that efforts are ongoing to restore peace.
He also revealed that he is in communication with the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, as both governments work to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice and normalcy is restored.
Meanwhile, the management of the University of Jos had earlier postponed its first semester examinations and directed the immediate evacuation of students from hostels and surrounding areas following the attack.