Panic has gripped Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero (KSUSTA), as an unknown disease has reportedly claimed the lives of five students, sparking fears of an outbreak.
According to students who spoke on condition of anonymity, four students died last week under unclear circumstances, and another passed away today after falling ill overnight.
The unsettling deaths come just days after officials from the World Health Organization (WHO) visited the university for a meningitis awareness campaign. However, it remains unclear whether the deaths are linked to the disease.
University Registrar Maimaru Alhaji Tilli confirmed the deaths of four students but admitted that the cause remains unknown. “We don’t know what is responsible, but we acknowledge the need to decongest student accommodations,” he stated.
Amid growing fears, the university administration has sought guidance from the Ministry of Higher Education on possible school closure to prevent further casualties. However, they have yet to receive a response.
The Students’ Union Government (SUG) has also formally requested the immediate shutdown of the institution, citing rising health concerns.
With no official diagnosis yet, anxiety continues to mount within the school community as students and parents await urgent intervention.
