Crime

University Deputy Vice-Chancellor Killed by Terrorists on Zamfara Highway

Published by Tope Fakinlede on June 25th, 2024.

University Deputy Vice-Chancellor Killed by Terrorists on Zamfara Highway

The deceased, Yusuf

In a tragic event, Yusuf Saidu, a professor in the Department of Biochemistry and the deputy vice-chancellor of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, was killed by terrorists, commonly referred to as bandits, on a highway notorious for such attacks in Zamfara State.

The university announced this incident on its Facebook page on Monday. According to sources at the institution, Professor Saidu and his driver were ambushed by the bandits on a highway connecting Zamfara and Kaduna States. The driver managed to escape but sustained injuries.

A university lecturer, speaking to PREMIUM TIMES anonymously, revealed that the attack occurred in the village of Kucheri, shortly after Tsafe town, an area well-known for frequent bandit attacks.

Isa Ali Ibrahim, an Islamic cleric and former minister under President Muhammadu Buhari, confirmed the professor’s death on his X page (formerly Twitter) on June 24. He wrote: “Inna lil Laahi wa inna ilaiHi Raajiun! The death has occurred of Professor Yusuf Saidu, the Deputy Vice Chancellor Research Innovation and Development at Usmanu Danfodiyo University (UDUS) Sokoto. He was attacked and killed by bandits on his way to Kaduna from Sokoto.”

The day before this incident, three terrorists ambushed a police checkpoint in Bukuyum LGA, Zamfara, killing one officer and injuring others. The assailants seized rifles and other police belongings.

Terrorists in the North-west region have consistently targeted communities, educational institutions, places of worship, and highways, resulting in numerous deaths and displacements over the years.