Terhile Timothy Achinya, a mechanical engineering student at Isa Mustapha Agwai Polytechnic in Lafia, has tragically died after being severely brutalised by yet-to-identified military personnel.
Reports indicates that Achinya was allegedly beaten to death by unidentified soldiers, leading to significant unrest within the Polytechnic community.
The Acting Rector of the institution, Dr. Nurudeen Mu’azu Maifata, has called for calm among students and staff following this incident. In a statement, the President of the Students Union Government, Comr. Jacob John Mutuwa, detailed the events that preceded Achinya's death.
He explained that the situation escalated when a fellow student, Samuel Ejembi, reported alleged cult activities involving some students to military personnel. Subsequently, soldiers apprehended both the informant and the accused at Eji World, an entertainment venue adjacent to the campus.
Mutuwa reported that Achinya died while in military custody, allegedly during interrogation and torture. His body was later taken to Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital in Lafia.
The Union President expressed deep sorrow over the incident, suggesting that the availability of student accommodations, which were previously established by former Governor Tanko Almakura, might have prevented such tragedies.
Despite the emotional turmoil, the student body has maintained a composed response. Mutuwa reassured the community that legal actions are being pursued against those responsible for Achinya's death and called for continued calm.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has also reacted, demanding swift action to hold the perpetrators accountable.
The Coordinator of NANS Zone C, Comr. Daniel Friday Egga, commended the Polytechnic's management and student leadership for their handling of the situation.
