Kwara state CP visits KWASU, endorses tough new security measures to protect students
In a decisive step to curb rising insecurity around university campuses, the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo, has pledged stronger security presence at the Kwara State University and endorsed a suite of bold new safety measures rolled out by the university management.
The CP gave the pledge when he paid an official visit to Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete.
The visit, described as “timely and reassuring” by university authorities, comes on the heels of a recent spike in off-campus robbery incidents targeting students living in privately-owned hostels.
CP Ojo who was received by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Shaykh Luqman Alade Jimoh, and other members of the university’s top management, described the university’s action plan as “a model for other institutions,” and assured KWASU of increased police visibility in and around Malete.
He said “ Our duty is to support the academic environment and ensure students, staff, and residents feel safe at all times. We are working to apprehend the suspects behind the recent robbery and restore public confidence,” the CP said.
CP Ojo condemned the illegal searching of phones by police officers, saying “ Let me be clear, searching phones on the street is illegal. It is a violation of human rights and against our internal code of conduct. Anyone caught doing so will face disciplinary measures.”
The Commissioner’s remarks drew applause from student representatives, who had raised concerns about overreach by some law enforcement personnel.
Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Jimoh had praised the existing partnership between the university and the Kwara State Police Command, singling out the Malete Divisional Police Officer and his team for their professional conduct during recent crises.
“ We deeply appreciate the effort of the police and our community leaders in maintaining a peaceful atmosphere. However, the safety of our students is paramount, and that is why we are introducing stricter rules to close all gaps in our security architecture,” the VC said.
In response to recent threats, the VC said the university’s internal security committee had enacted several measures aimed at preventing further breaches.
He listed the measures to include, Mandatory engagement of vigilante security personnel by all private hostel operators. Non-compliant hostels risk student boycotts, Restriction of motorcycle (Okada) movements after 10:00 PM, warning that Violators may have their motorcycles impounded.
Others, according to him, all campus-based shops must close by 11:00 PM, while Student use of generators is prohibited after 12:00 AM, to reduce noise and safety risks.
These rules, according to Prof. Jimoh, were adopted following stakeholder consultations and will be enforced with the support of community leaders, security agencies, and the Students’ Union Government (SUG).
During the visit, CP Ojo toured the hostel that was targeted in the latest robbery incident, met with affected students, and provided safety advice. He also held strategic meetings with the Community Policing Committee and local vigilante operatives, praising their efforts and promising logistical and operational support.
Student leaders welcomed the visit, describing it as a “confidence booster” and a signal that student safety is being taken seriously at the highest levels.
