Taraba nursing students protest over hostel attack, rape claim

On Monday, students of the Taraba State College of Nursing Sciences in Jalingo staged a protest due to a reported incident of theft and rape involving one of their female students. The unnamed student was allegedly raped after an attack on one of the female hostels located outside the institution's premises, as reported by Daily Trust.

Following the assault, one of the student's fingers was reportedly severed, and she was taken to a private hospital in Jalingo for medical treatment. The attack, which occurred early Monday morning, saw the hoodlums steal students' mobile phones and other valuables.

According to an unnamed student union official, this was the second incident targeting students' hostels within a two-week period. The official stated that during the first attack last week, the school authorities and the Commissioner of Tertiary Education had been informed, with a promise of improved security measures. However, no action was taken to address the security concerns.

The student union official expressed frustration that while the college has seven hostels, many students still reside outside the campus, and inadequate security exposes them to danger. The Provost of the college, Dr Dorcas Dugule, acknowledged the incident and stated that she was taking steps to address the matter. Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the Taraba State Police Command confirmed the attack but denied any rape allegation, stating that the victim had not been seen by the police. Further updates from the police are expected.