Authorities at Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, have arrested a 400-level undergraduate accused of attempting to force another student into a cult group.
The suspect, an Economics student, was apprehended by the university’s vigilante team after a complaint was filed by a fellow undergraduate who alleged that he was harassed and assaulted for refusing to join the Black Axe Confraternity.
According to the university management, the victim reported being subjected to intimidation and threats after rejecting repeated attempts to recruit him into the group.
“Out of fear for my safety, I abandoned my residence and remained in hiding for several days before reporting the matter,” the statement quoted the complainant as having stated.
School authorities said preliminary findings showed evidence of physical injuries on the complainant, while the suspect allegedly made statements linking him to parts of the incident during questioning.
Investigators also reportedly examined the suspect’s phone and discovered messages believed to be connected to suspected cult members. Information recovered from the device is expected to aid ongoing investigations into the activities of the group.
The university has handed the suspect over to security agencies for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Vice-Chancellor, Professor Salisu Usman, commended security personnel for their swift action and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to eliminating cultism and other forms of criminality from the campus.
“Let this serve as a strong warning to students and anyone involved in cult-related activities: steer clear of Prince Abubakar Audu University.
“We remain committed to providing a safe, peaceful, and conducive environment for teaching, learning, research, and community service”, the statement quoted Usman to have warned.
The university also urged students and staff to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, especially as second-semester examinations commence.
