Rivers University Suspends Classes, Evacuates Students Following Abduction

The Vice Chancellor of Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, has ordered an immediate suspension of lectures at the university’s Emuoha satellite campus after five students were abducted from their residence on Tuesday.

In addition, the VC directed the prompt evacuation of all students from the Emuoha campus until further notice.

According to reports, gunmen stormed an off-campus residence in Rumuchi/Rumuohia, Emuoha, firing sporadically before abducting the students. The attack sparked a student protest, with some marching to the VC’s office to voice concerns over the safety of their colleagues.

Addressing the protesters, Prof. Zeb-Obipi condemned the attack and stated that the matter would be presented to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the visitor to the university, for guidance and appropriate intervention. He emphasized that those responsible must be apprehended and punished, warning that failure to enforce consequences emboldens criminals.

“Students at the Emuoha campus, if you can relocate, please do so, as lectures have been suspended. Our priority now is ensuring the safe return of the abducted students. Those behind this act must be found and brought to justice,” the VC said.

Meanwhile, the Rivers State chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the abducted students. NYCN State Chairman Nwisabari Bani condemned the incident and called on the university to consider relocating students from the Emuoha campus to the main campus in Port Harcourt.

Bani further urged the government, security agencies, traditional leaders, and community stakeholders to strengthen security measures in all communities hosting students.

“The safety of our young people—the future scientists, engineers, leaders, and entrepreneurs—must not be compromised. Immediate, coordinated security reinforcement is essential,” he said.

This marks the second student protest at the Emuoha campus over criminal attacks and harassment in the area. Rivers State University currently runs four satellite campuses—Emuoha, Etche, Ahoada, and Sakpenwa—established during the previous administration of Nyesom Wike.