Following security challenges resulting into the death of a student earlier on Monday, Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago has ordered the closure of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai.

A statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, and made available to LEADERSHIP on Thursday morning, conveyed the directive of the Governor.

"It is with great concern that the Governor of Niger State, Farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago has directed with immediate effect, closure of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, Niger State," the statement read.

It further revealed that the decision came on the heels of "recent security breaches and unfortunate loss of lives within the University community".

According to the SSG, "The safety and security of all citizens, especially students, remain a top priority for the government. We are deeply saddened by the recent incidents and government is taking proactive measures to address the situation swiftly".

LEADERSHIP recalls that a student of the University, Jafar was killed in the early hours of Monday during a suspected armed robbery incident at a students' lodge in the Ndakikpabu area of the town.

The assailants stabbed Jafar in the neck around 2:30 a.m. and he was later pronounced dead at the General Hospital, Lapai, where he was taken for treatment.