A fresh student of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, Benue State, Felix Nyikyaa, who was reported missing after allegedly drowning in the River Niger, was recovered dead on Tuesday. The incident has left the university community in mourning and raised questions about the circumstances surrounding his death.
The Disappearance and Recovery
Felix Nyikyaa, a first-year student admitted to the Department of Agribusiness in the College of Management Sciences, was reported missing on Sunday. According to the President of the National Association of Benue State Students (NABSS), Ashar Lubem, the student’s disappearance prompted an immediate search effort by rescuers.
After two days of intensive searching, Nyikyaa’s body was found floating by the river bank on Tuesday morning. Lubem, in a telephone conversation with FRONTPAGE, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and revealed that the student association was working to contact the family.
“The incident happened two days ago (Sunday), and rescuers searched for him. His body was found this morning (Tuesday). We are still looking into the situation to determine whether it was a case of drowning or if foul play was involved,” Lubem stated.
Uncertainty Surrounding the Incident
The circumstances leading to Nyikyaa’s death remain unclear. While initial reports suggest he may have drowned, the fact that his body was found floating near the river bank has raised suspicions. Lubem emphasized that the student association is committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring that justice is served if any foul play is discovered.
“We are still investigating the incident to ascertain what really happened. Was it a case of drowning, or was he killed? These are the questions we are seeking answers to,” Lubem added.
Condolences and Calls for Vigilance
The tragic death of Felix Nyikyaa has sent shockwaves through the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University community and beyond. Lubem extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, describing the loss as a painful reminder of the fragility of life.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of the student, and we mourn the loss of a young and promising life. The student’s passing is a tragic reminder of the fragility of life, and we are reminded to cherish every moment we have with our loved ones,” Lubem said.
He also urged students to prioritize their well-being and seek help when needed. “We urge all students to be mindful of their well-being and to seek help if they are struggling with their emotions or if they need support. The university is here to support you, and we want to ensure that everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive,” he added.
Social Media Tributes and Outpouring of Grief
Colleagues and friends of the late student took to social media to express their grief and pay tribute to him. Tsekaa Amos, a fellow student, revealed that Nyikyaa was supposed to be among the students matriculated on Monday, a day before his body was recovered.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our beloved brother, who was supposed to be matriculated yesterday. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of the student, and we mourn the loss of our very fellow great Makurdian who was admitted to the Department of Agribusiness, College of Management Sciences,” Amos wrote.
Many other students shared similar sentiments, describing Nyikyaa as a bright and promising individual whose life was cut short tragically.
Police Yet to Comment
When contacted on Tuesday, the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, Anene Sewuese, stated that she was yet to be briefed on the incident. She promised to provide updates but had not done so as of the time of filing this report.
The lack of an official statement from the police has left many questions unanswered, further fueling speculation about the circumstances surrounding Nyikyaa’s death.
Broader Implications for Student Safety
The tragic incident has reignited discussions about the safety and well-being of students in Nigerian universities. Many have called for increased security measures around campuses, particularly in areas close to water bodies.
Stakeholders have also emphasized the need for mental health support and counseling services for students, especially freshmen who may struggle to adapt to their new environment. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of creating a safe and supportive atmosphere for students to thrive.
Conclusion
The death of Felix Nyikyaa is a heartbreaking loss for his family, friends, and the entire Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University community. As investigations continue, there is hope that the circumstances surrounding his death will be uncovered, and appropriate actions will be taken to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
In the meantime, the university community is left to mourn the loss of a young and promising life, a reminder of the need to cherish every moment and prioritize the safety and well-being of all students.
