Students of University of Jos have been directed to vacate their hostels following escalating security concerns in Jos, the capital of Plateau State.

The directive, issued on Wednesday, comes amid rising tension in communities surrounding the institution, prompting fears over the safety of students and staff.

In a statement released by the Deputy Registrar, Information and Public Relations, Emmanuel Madugu, the Vice-Chancellor, Tanko Ishaya, ordered the immediate evacuation of students from university hostels as a precautionary measure.

According to the statement, the decision was necessitated by the deteriorating security situation and “near chaotic scenarios” reported in areas close to the campus.

The university management explained that the developments on Wednesday heightened anxiety and posed a potential threat to students, making urgent intervention necessary.

To support the evacuation, the Plateau State Government, under Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has provided transportation services for students, with special approval granted for movement during curfew hours.

Authorities said students residing within Jos and nearby areas began evacuation from Wednesday afternoon, while those whose families live outside the city are scheduled to depart from Thursday morning.

Despite the situation, the university assured that adequate security personnel have been deployed to safeguard its facilities and maintain order on campus.

The Vice-Chancellor also reiterated management’s commitment to restoring normalcy and ensuring the safety of the university community.

Students and parents were urged to remain calm and comply with the evacuation arrangements as authorities continue to monitor developments.

The evacuation order follows renewed unrest in Jos, hours after the relaxation of a 48-hour curfew imposed by the state government in response to the deadly attack in Anguwan Rukuba.

Reports indicate that sporadic violence has resurfaced in parts of the city, triggering panic among residents. Traders who had earlier reopened their businesses reportedly fled, while eyewitnesses described scenes of confusion as people sought safety amid fears of further attacks.

Security presence has since been reinforced in affected areas, although officials are yet to issue a comprehensive statement on the latest incidents.