Two students from Nasarawa State University Keffi (NSUK) met a tragic end as a peaceful palliative rice distribution spiraled into chaos, resulting in a fatal stampede.
The incident, which shook the university community to its core, unfolded amidst a struggle among students vying for essential supplies amidst dire economic circumstances.
Reports emerging from the scene indicate that the stampede erupted suddenly, catching many off guard and leading to the untimely demise of the two 200-level female students from the Department of Computer Science.
Eyewitnesses recount scenes of pandemonium as students, driven by desperation, jostled and pushed in a frenzied attempt to secure their share of the distributed palliatives.
The palliatives, purportedly provided by the Governor of Nasarawa State, were intended to alleviate the financial strain faced by students grappling with the economic fallout of the ongoing challenges. However, what was meant to be a gesture of support and solidarity tragically ended in loss and grief.
Watch the video of the stampede here.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, a source close to the incident expressed shock and sorrow at the turn of events, lamenting the loss of promising young lives in such a senseless manner.
The university community is reeling from the shock of the incident, grappling with the profound sadness of losing cherished members in the pursuit of basic necessities.
Authorities at NSUK have yet to release an official statement regarding the tragic incident, as investigations into the circumstances surrounding the stampede are underway.
Questions loom large over the adequacy of security measures in place during such distributions, prompting calls for a thorough review of protocols to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As the university community mourns the loss of their fellow students, the tragic events serve as a stark reminder of the pressing need for comprehensive support systems to address the socio-economic challenges facing students across the nation.
