Ondo varsity assures parents, students of adequate security

The Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko in Ondo State, has assured students of the institution and their parents of adequate security in the school environment and its host community.

The Head, Information, Protocol and Public Relations of the institution, Victor Akinpelumi, in a statement on Thursday, said that the university was committed to the well-being of students of the institution.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that in recent times there has been apprehension among students of the institution living off campus due to violent attacks leading to deaths.

“In light of the recent security concerns in the Akungba Akoko community, the management of Adekunle Ajasin University wishes to assure our students and parents that the institution is fully committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all our students, both on campus and in the surrounding host communities.

“The management recognises the seriousness of the prevailing security situation around Akungba community and the impact it has had on our students’ sense of security.

“The university has taken proactive steps to address these issues in collaboration with relevant security authorities,” he said.

Akinpelumi added that the institution’s management had requested the immediate deployment of additional security personnel, to enhance the patrol of the campus and surrounding communities.

According to him, this increased security presence aims to deter criminal activities and apprehend suspected criminal elements in the area.

He explained that the university was also working closely with the Commissioner of Police in the state and other security agencies to develop a coordinated response to the security challenges.

“Regular meetings and dialogues are being held and strategies developed to ensure that all parties are aligned in their efforts to protect our students.

“Furthermore, we are fostering a stronger relationship with the host community through dialogue and collaboration.

“By involving community leaders and stakeholders, we aim to create a united front against crime and improve on the overall safety of our students and the community.

“Additional security measures are being implemented on campus, including more surveillance, improved lighting in critical areas, and regular security patrols to ensure a safe learning environment,” he stated.

The university’s spokesman said that the university’s management was actively engaging with the student body and paramilitary organisations on campus to promote safety awareness.

“Students are being encouraged to remain vigilant, report any suspicious activities, and take advantage of available safety resources.

“We want to reassure that the safety of our students is our top priority.

“The university’s management is dedicated to creating a secure environment where students can focus on their studies without fear,” he stated.

The institution’s spokesperson appreciated the cooperation and patience of students and parents as it worked diligently to address the security issues, saying their support and vigilance were vital in ensuring that the university community remained safe.

Akinpelumi asked anybody with useful information on the security of life and property to contact the University’s Security Unit or the Public Relations Unit.

Earlier, the President of the Students’ Union Government of the institution, Oyindamola Boladale, had written a letter to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, calling for enhanced security in the university community.

Boladale said that the recent incidents had turned the Akungba community into a dangerous terrain where armed robbery took place with the loss of lives of students and their belongings.

He said that the situation had created an atmosphere of fear and anxiety among the students and their parents and guardians at home.

NAN