Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto Press Release (on Horrendous Attack Unleashed Against Professor Abdullahi Abdu Zuru)

The Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto received, with utmost shock, the horrible news of the gory and horrendous attack unleashed against Professor Abdullahi Abdu Zuru while on national assignment at Yola, Adamawa State.

A fine gentleman, a true nationalist, an erudite scholar and a rare epitome of selflessness, Professor Zuru rose through the ranks to become the 8th Vice Chancellor of the University from 2014 to 2019. The bizarre and barbaric attack on the septuagenarian was not only disrespectful and dehumanizing but it has brought along with it untold mental torture and trauma to Professor Zuru and his family. It was an attack against the collective conscience of all right thinking individuals across the globe.

In strong, clear, and loud terms, the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto condemns the dreadful attack perpetrated by a certain species of mankind without morality. On behalf of all staff and students of the University, we call on the Federal Government of Nigeria to launch a speedy and incisive investigation with a view to uncovering, apprehending and prosecuting the masterminds and field agents of the dastardly attack within the shortest possible time. We are optimistic that the Federal Government will not allow the incident to wither away with time.

While the attackers might have executed their nefarious agenda, they have, however, failed to rob Professor Zuru of his hard-earned respect, honour and integrity. We hereby wish to identify and commiserate with him and his family in this trying time.

We join hands in extending our heart-felt sympathies to him and wish him speedy recovery from the injuries sustained in the attack. We also pray to Allah SWT to grant him and his family the fortitude to overcome the inflicted trauma.

PROFESSOR L.S. BILBIS

Vice Chancellor

Monday, the 17th day of April 2023